ODM condemns deadly violence in Kasipul By-Election campaigns

In a statement issued by ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga, the party expressed deep concern over Thursday’s incident in which a voter engagement meeting by the ODM candidate, Boyd Were, was violently disrupted by individuals alleged to be allied to a rival candidate.

According to the statement by Governor Wanga, the attackers stormed the venue, destroyed property, and endangered residents’ lives, resulting in the loss of lives and injuries that have heightened fear and tension in the area.

“This is not an isolated incident,” said Wanga, citing a previous attack during a Women Empowerment Programme in Sikri, where vehicles belonging to ODM supporters were vandalised and several women were harassed and injured.

“ODM will not be intimidated by acts of lawlessness aimed at derailing a free, fair, and peaceful election in Kasipul,” she said. “The people of Kasipul deserve the right to choose their leader without fear, intimidation, or coercion.”

The party called on security agencies to move swiftly to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators and financiers of the violence. It also urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure a level playing field for all candidates.

In addition, ODM appealed to all candidates and their supporters to exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory remarks or actions that could further inflame tensions during the campaign period.

The Kasipul by-election has attracted heightened political activity, with rival camps trading accusations as campaigns enter their final stretch.

Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrance Koilem confirmed that investigations are underway, adding that officers are on the ground to ensure all those responsible are brought to book.