Violence disrupts Kasipul ODM nominations, exercise delayed
The nomination exercise for the Kasipul Constituency by-election has been delayed following a violent disruption at the election materials distribution centre.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, forcing the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to issue an official statement condemning the actions.
You might also like
In a notice on X, the party said aspirant Newton Ogada arrived at the distribution centre with a group of supporters, described as “goons,” and began threatening the Returning Officer and other election officials.
The disruption was further complicated by the arrival of Homa Bay Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga, who is not a candidate in the primaries, leading to further delays in the exercise, which was scheduled to start at 8:00 am.
Also watch: ODM party aspirants claim bias in Kasipul primaries
ODM Commissioner Emily Awitta described the events as “barbaric and egregious,” emphasising that all aspirants had previously agreed to conduct themselves peacefully during the nomination process.
She warned that any candidate attempting to disrupt the exercise, intimidate officials, or cause unnecessary delays would face strict disciplinary action, including disqualification from the primaries.
“We expect calmness, friendliness, and sobriety during the exercise. Any candidate hell-bent on disruption will face stern action,” Awitta said.
The party assured members and supporters in Kasipul that it was taking all necessary measures to resume and complete the nomination exercise peacefully before the close of business at 5:00 pm.
ODM party highlighted the party’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and orderly process, even as local political tensions remain high.
The incident comes a day after claims from parliamentary aspirant Boyd Were, who accused some rivals of plotting chaos to manipulate the nominations.
Were warned that other candidates had allegedly recruited individuals from Nairobi and Kisumu to intimidate participants.
“We learned that he has enlisted a notorious criminal who brought gunmen from Eastleigh in Nairobi to cause chaos in Oyugis,” his team stated.
The Kasipul by-election, set for November 27, 2025, is part of a series of nationwide by-elections organised by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to fill vacant legislative seats.
The constituency has seen intense political competition, with party primaries often drawing significant local attention and sometimes clashes among supporters.
Author
William Muthama
William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]
View all posts by William Muthama
