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Kenya, 28 October 2025 - Ten candidates have been cleared by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to contest the Kasipul Constituency by-election on 27 November 2025, with the commission assuring residents of a free and fair poll.
The seat fell vacant following the death of sitting MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, and the race has quickly become a key test of political strength in Nyanza, particularly for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in the post-Raila Odinga era.
Kasipul has 67,513 registered voters across five wards with West Kasipul having 14,303 voters, South Kasipul (14,318), Central Kasipul (15,476), East Kamagak (9,074), and West Kamagak (14,342).
The distribution highlights the importance of targeted campaigning, as candidates must navigate clan dynamics, party loyalty, and issue-based appeals to maximise support.
Historically dominated by ODM, the constituency is witnessing a surge in independent candidates and smaller party hopefuls seeking to challenge traditional political structures.
Boyd Were, ODM’s candidate and son of the late MP, is front and centre in the contest, leveraging both his father’s legacy and the party’s mobilisation machinery.
Speaking to constituents, he said, “I come to this race humbled yet inspired by the legacy of my late father… I am confident I will win because ODM remains the home of the people of Kasipul… Together with ODM’s machinery, we will make Kasipul shine even brighter.”
Independents are making a strong push.
Veteran politician Philip Nashon Aroko emphasized the need for accountability and fresh leadership.
“Kasipul deserves more than recycled promises… I am confident I will win because the people are tired of being used only during elections,” Mr Aroko said.
Another aspirant, Mr Robert Money Bior, appealed for unity and development, saying, “I appeal for your vote so that we can translate our unity into lasting progress… Let us make Kasipul the beacon of independent leadership.”
Jeazmen Linda Aoko Ouma, championing youth and women’s representation, added, “I am confident I can win because the people of Kasipul are looking for fresh representation that reflects the diversity of our constituency… Let’s rise together.”
Other candidates focus on development-oriented platforms.
Isaac Kiche Abok (KMM) is prioritising education, healthcare, infrastructure, and youth empowerment, while Sam Rateng Okoth (UPA) and Collins Okeyo Omondi (MDG) stress inclusive governance and community-driven development.
Jesse Samson Owen (DNA) and Robert Ouko Ouma (LPK) highlight job creation and responsive leadership, and Ishmael Omondi Oyoo (NLP) frames his campaign as a promise of liberation from neglect and poverty, seeking to bring a “new dawn” to all Kasipul residents.
Analysts say the by-election will test both ODM’s ability to maintain dominance and the potential of independents to translate grassroots appeal into actual votes. Vote splitting among smaller parties could either dilute ODM’s stronghold or, if poorly managed, hand the party an easier victory. Voter turnout will be crucial in large wards such as Central Kasipul and East Kamagak, where mobilization strategies are likely to determine the outcome.
In essence, the Kasipul by-election is more than a local contest. It is a snapshot of shifting political dynamics in Nyanza, revealing voter appetite for alternatives, the continuing influence of party machinery, and the strategic role of youth and women voters.
With ten candidates actively courting constituents, each confident of victory, the results will offer an early indication of ODM’s resilience post-Odinga and the viability of independent challengers in breaking entrenched political patterns.
