HOMA BAY, Kenya, Nov 27 — Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament Peter Kaluma was attacked by a mob at the Agoro Sale polling station in Kasipul during ongoing by-elections, raising concerns over election security and voter intimidation.
Kaluma, who was observing the vote on behalf of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), sustained injuries after being confronted by an armed group. His bodyguard was also attacked, and reportedly lost his firearm in the chaos.
Images obtained by sauce.co.ke show the lawmaker surrounded by the mob before being rushed to safety by polling station personnel. Medical staff administered first aid after Kaluma suffered head injuries. Police officers at the station intervened to contain the situation.
Kaluma Blames Political Rivalry for Attack
Speaking after the incident, Kaluma alleged that the assailants were linked to an independent candidate, considered one of the main challengers for the Kasipul MP seat.
“The way to end this is not fighting back; we are very small people. We would have fought them back. Don’t fight because that is exactly what they want. They want to scare people from coming to vote,” Kaluma said.
He urged residents to remain calm and participate in the by-elections:
“I want to tell people to come out and vote. People like these want to scare voters. We will not fight physically; we will fight at the ballot,” he added.
Chaos Reported in Mbeere North as Voting Continues
The incident in Kasipul follows disturbances at Siakago Social Hall in Mbeere North, where Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi and his team confronted the agent of Leonard Wa Muthende, Thuku Kiruga.
Muturi’s team accused Kiruga of wearing UDA party colours, which they said was unlawful inside the polling station. Observers also raised concerns about voter bribery and attempts to influence the election.
“We have people wearing party colours and bribing voters. We urge the Ministry to act immediately and protect the integrity of the election,” said one opposition observer.
Security Concerns in By-Elections
The attacks on Kaluma and other incidents across the country highlight rising tensions in Kenya’s by-elections, as voters and candidates navigate security risks while casting ballots. Authorities have been called upon to strengthen protection for political leaders, polling agents, and voters to ensure free and fair elections.
