The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has fined Kasipul parliamentary candidates Philip Aroko and Boyd Were Ksh1 million each for inciting and participating in campaign violence. The clashes occurred on November 6, resulting in two deaths and property damage. The IEBC committee warned of disqualification from the November 27 by-election if violations recur.
Political clashes in the Opondo area of Kasipul Constituency, Homa Bay County, on November 6, 2025, led to two deaths, several injuries, and property destruction when campaign convoys of ODM candidate Boyd Were and independent Philip Aroko collided. The incident prompted IEBC to summon both candidates to a disciplinary hearing on November 17, 2025, to address complaints from both sides.
On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the IEBC Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee, chaired by Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana, imposed a Ksh1 million fine on each, ordering payment within 48 hours or facing further action. "The lack of discipline by these candidates in adhering to the schedule caused the violence, deaths, and property damage witnessed in Kasipul," Mukhwana stated.
The committee issued a stern warning: "Should any violation of the electoral code be repeated by any of them, this committee will consider all penalties under the law, including their disqualification." All candidates were directed to strictly follow the harmonized campaign schedule agreed upon since October 10, sign the Political Ethics Pact, and make a public pledge for peaceful campaigns. Both sides filed complaints: Aroko accused Were and his supporters of attacking his convoy, while Were claimed Aroko's supporters intimidated residents at an event attended by the Deputy President.
Additionally, IEBC condemned the Homa Bay County Government under Governor Gladys Wanga for interfering in the campaigns by misusing public resources, contravening Section 14 of the Elections Offences Act. Investigation reports confirmed police complaints filed on November 6. This decision comes ahead of the Kasipul by-election on November 27, 2025.