The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has strongly condemned the incidents of political violence reported in Kasipul Constituency ahead of the upcoming by-election scheduled for November 27, 2025.
In a statement released on Friday, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon said the Commission was deeply saddened and dismayed by reports indicating that the violence had led to the loss of two lives and several injuries, as confirmed by security agencies in Homa Bay County.
“The Commission condemns, in the strongest terms possible, the senseless acts of violence that have led to the loss of lives and injuries. Such acts of hooliganism, harassment, intimidation, and destruction undermine the democratic gains that our country has worked so hard to achieve,” said Ethekon.
The Commission called on political parties, candidates, and their supporters to observe peace and adhere strictly to the Electoral Code of Conduct, as provided under the Second Schedule to the Elections Act, 2011.
IEBC reminded all electoral participants that the Code requires tolerance, respect for the rule of law, and peaceful conduct during the electoral period.
Ethekon warned that failure to adhere to the Code could attract serious consequences, including disqualification of candidates or political parties found culpable.
To this end, IEBC has dispatched an investigation team with instructions to establish the facts and recommend appropriate action in line with the law.
He further emphasized that violence has no place in a democracy and that such incidents must be met with “firm and lawful response.”
“As we mourn and condole with the affected families, we urge security agencies to move with speed to investigate these heinous acts and bring the perpetrators to justice,” the IEBC chair stated.
The Commission also reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that every Kenyan exercises their democratic right in an environment free from fear, violence, intimidation, or coercion.
“We call upon all stakeholders — political leaders, candidates, and citizens — to exercise restraint, demonstrate respect for law, and put the interests of the nation above all else,” added Ethekon.
He concluded by reminding Kenyans that elections are not “a battle of might but a contest of ideas,” stressing that peaceful participation remains the greatest mark of democratic maturity.
Got a news tip? Please send us an email at info@nairobidaily.com
