The political landscape in Kenya witnessed a shocking incident during the recent Kasipul by-elections when Homa Bay Town MP Peter George Kaluma and his bodyguard fell victim to an attack by unknown assailants. The chaotic scene unfolded at Agoro Sare Primary School, a polling station, raising serious concerns about electoral violence and safety in the region.
Kaluma, who was actively serving as the chief agent for the ODM Party in this pivotal election, faced hostility when a group of youths confronted him. The situation escalated quickly, leaving Kaluma injured and in dire need of medical attention. Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants not only assaulted him but also made off with the firearm belonging to his bodyguard.
In a startling account, Kaluma described his attackers as “former robbers” and alleged that they were affiliated with independent candidate Philip Aroko’s supporters. The MP claimed that as he arrived at the polling station ahead of ODM candidate Boyd Were Ong’ondo, tensions were already high. He sustained a head injury, prompting immediate medical care.
Witnesses recounted the chaotic encounter, stating that the aggressive youths challenged Kaluma’s presence at the polling station, arguing that he was not a voter in Kasipul. This confrontation escalated into physical violence, leaving the MP injured. A local publication quoted a witness saying, “They pushed and hit him on the back of the head,” highlighting the severity of the attack.
In what appeared to be a coordinated effort, a video that surfaced online showed a group of youths allegedly brandishing a firearm, identified as the weapon taken from Kaluma’s bodyguard. However, authorities had yet to authenticate the video, leaving questions about the legitimacy of the claims surrounding the violent episode.
The backdrop to this chaotic by-election environment has been marred by previous violence that occurred during the campaign period. Just earlier this month, both Philip Aroko and ODM’s Boyd Were were penalized with fines of Sh1 million each due to incidents that resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries. This adds to the tension surrounding the electoral process, compelling authorities to take notice.
A security assessment carried out just hours before the polling commenced indicated a significant police presence aimed at preventing disorder amid the charged atmosphere surrounding the Kasipul elections. The government had issued stern warnings about possible arrests for those violating election laws, underscoring the seriousness of maintaining peace during the voting process.
The Kasipul by-election featured a competitive field, with a total of nine candidates vying for victory. This included prominent figures such as Boyd Were from ODM and Philip Aroko as an independent contender, among others. The heightened competition and tension in the air illustrate the gravity of the electoral climate in Kenya.
All photos by Sammy Omingo, Standard
