The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has slapped strict movement restrictions on candidates and their supporters in the tense Kasipul by-election, following a violent morning that rattled voters and security agencies.
Kasipul Returning Officer Rebecca Abwakhu confirmed the directive, saying the ban on hopping from one polling station to another was “necessary to curb possible chaos and protect the integrity of the vote.”
Her announcement came hours after chaos erupted at Agoro Sare polling centre, where Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, acting as ODM’s chief agent for candidate Boyd Were, was brutally attacked. His bodyguard was also assaulted, and one of the attackers allegedly fled with his firearm—an incident that escalated fears of coordinated violence.
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem fully backed the IEBC directive, warning residents against milling around polling centres under the guise of “protecting their votes.”
“Only police are allowed to provide security. The issue of casting a vote and hopping from one station to another must stop,” Koilem said.
He further confirmed that a manhunt is underway for the gang behind the assault on Kaluma.
“We’re taking the matter seriously. The suspects disappeared, but we are pursuing them. There must be peace,” he assured.
With heightened political tension and rival camps trading accusations, IEBC has made it clear: candidates must stay put, supporters must stay away from polling stations, and voters must cast their ballots and leave immediately.
The restriction aims to prevent repeat confrontations like the Agoro Sare chaos, allegedly triggered by goons linked to Independent candidate Philip Aroko.
Meanwhile, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna waded into the chaos, describing today as “one of the bloodiest election days in recent history.”
He accused Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen of failing to ensure adequate election security as violence erupted in Malava, Kabuchai and Kasipul.
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