The nomination exercise to select a party candidate for the Kasipul Constituency by-election was thrown into disarray on Wednesday after violence broke out at the election materials distribution centre.
According to the party’s National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC), the disruption was triggered when aspirant Newton Ogada allegedly stormed the venue accompanied by hired goons who threatened the Returning Officer and other officials overseeing the process.
The exercise, which was scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m., was further delayed by the unexpected arrival of Homa Bay Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga, who is not contesting in the primaries. Officials described his presence as “unnecessary” and accused him of contributing to the confusion.
“This incident is not only barbaric but also egregious considering the commitment that aspirants participating in the nomination exercise agreed to adhere to during a meeting held in Nairobi last Tuesday,” NECC Chairperson Emily Awitta said in a statement.Awitta warned candidates against intimidating election officials or attempting to derail the nomination process, stressing that stern disciplinary measures, including possible disqualification, would be taken against offenders.
Despite the disruption, the party assured members and supporters in Kasipul that voting would proceed peacefully and conclude before the 5:00 p.m. deadline.
The by-election in Kasipul is scheduled for November 27.