Kasipul Candidates Boyd, Aroko Fined Ksh1 Million
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has imposed a hefty penalty of Ksh1 million each on Kasipul by-election candidates Boyd Were and Philip Aroko following violent confrontations reported during their recent campaign activities. The commission announced the disciplinary action on Wednesday, November 19, after reviewing evidence presented before the Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee.
According to the IEBC, the chaos witnessed in parts of the constituency posed a clear violation of the Electoral Code of Conduct. The commission noted that both candidates either directly took part in activities that triggered the unrest or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent their supporters from engaging in disruptive conduct. As a result, the committee concluded that the two aspirants must bear responsibility for the disorder that threatened the credibility and peace of the electoral process.
While addressing journalists, the committee directed Were and Aroko to pay the fines within 48 hours. Failure to meet this deadline, the IEBC cautioned, would attract additional disciplinary measures as outlined in the Elections Act and the Electoral Code of Conduct. These measures could range from heightened sanctions to restrictions that may affect their continued participation in the by-election.
In its statement, the commission emphasized that this action serves not only as punishment but also as a firm reminder that candidates must uphold the principles of peaceful and fair campaigns. The committee stressed that any repetition of similar offences would leave them with little choice but to invoke harsher penalties — including disqualification from the race altogether.
“My Philip Aroko for the violation is hereby condemned to pay a fine of Ksh1 million to IEBC within 48 hours of these orders, and similarly Mr Boyd Were is also condemned to pay Ksh1 million to IEBC within the same period,” the committee stated.
The IEBC added that the warning applies strictly and will be enforced without hesitation should the candidates or their supporters instigate further violence or intimidation. The commission reiterated that maintaining order, respecting opponents, and safeguarding voters’ rights remain critical responsibilities for anyone seeking public office.
The Kasipul by-election has attracted heightened attention as political temperatures in the region rise. With the IEBC now tightening enforcement of campaign regulations, all candidates are expected to conduct themselves within the confines of the law to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral exercise.
Kasipul Candidates Boyd, Aroko Fined Ksh1 Million
