- A section of senior politicians from Nyanza teamed up to support Philip Aroko ahead of the November 27 by-election
- Aroko made a humble appeal to teachers during their meeting in West Kasipul on Saturday, November 22
- Former Migori governor Okoth Obado explained the reason for backing the independent candidate ahead of the mini polls
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features in digital and print media.
Homa Bay: Kasipul by-election campaigns are intensifying as various politicians publicly endorse their candidates ahead of the mini-polls scheduled for November 27.
Source: Facebook
The constituency’s seat fell vacant following the assassination of area MP Ong’ondo Were on April 30, 2025.
As the by-election approaches, former Migori county governor Okoth Obado and the Homa Bay deputy governor have joined independent candidate Philip Aroko’s camp, campaigning for him.
This development may be seen as a major setback for the ODM party, which has been vigorously backing Boyd Were, the son of the late MP.
Which senior politicians are backing Aroko?
Speaking after campaigns on Saturday, November 22, where he met with teachers, Aroko expressed gratitude to the many politicians, including UDA leaders, who had shown their support as the by-election drew near.
“Today, I was privileged to engage with our teachers from all corners of Kasipul Constituency. We were honoured to be joined by former governor Okoth Obado, UDA Regional Director Mr Otore, Professor Silvance Abeka, Mwalimu Odoyo Owidi, Director Newton Ogada, former CEC Okeyo, and other distinguished leaders in West Kasipul. Together, we charted a clear path towards the resuscitation and renewal of our beloved constituency. Our teachers, alongside other professionals, have firmly declared their commitment to be part and parcel of the progressive agenda championed by Otete. Kasipul is ready for a new dawn, and with such united support, victory is within reach,” he said.
“As we approach November 27, let us remain steadfast and resolute. The future of our constituency is in our hands. Let us come out in large numbers and vote Otete, the choice of the people and the beacon of transformation,” he added.
Magwanga and Owidi have repeatedly criticised the ODM party for allegedly imposing a ‘weak’ candidate.
At their rallies and calls demanding change, they echoed past allegations against the late MP, suggesting his son, Boyd, might continue similar misconduct.
Source: Facebook
Why is Obado supporting Philip Aroko?
Obado echoed similar sentiments and urged the Kasipul voters to vote for real change in the by-election and bring an end to leader-fueled impunity.
According to the former county boss, the decision to secure the future of children in the region lies in the by-election outcome.
“This is the time to liberate our region. The impunity of directing us must stop. As teachers, we are good people and we teach our children that Kenya is a land of equal opportunities and a democratic state. It is wrong for some people to deny us our wishes using propaganda. This will help secure our children’s future. Do not vote for someone who will dictate to you. Speak in one voice—you have the power to tilt the balance in favour of Philip Aroko. Things must change from now, and it must start here,” he advised.
Ogada, once an ODM candidate, defected from the party after losing in the nominations. He was strongly backed by Magwanga, but the elections turned violent, and his property—including a hospital and vehicles—was badly damaged.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
