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Trial judge Diana Kavedza said five witnesses are expected to take the stand on the first day of the hearing. She also directed defence lawyer Chacha Mwita and his client to properly arrange photographic exhibits, including pictures showing alleged bullet holes on vehicles, noting that this would help the court move faster during the trial.
Trouble started as Kisumu County Women Representative Ruth Odinga stood to deliver her tribute. Moments earlier, Ida Odinga had already been forced to address the crowd after the group became restless at the back of the tent while waiting for Kasipul MP Boyd Were to enter.
Were said he is focused on moving forward and ensuring that cycles of violence that claim innocent lives are brought to an end. He highlighted that no act of revenge can undo the pain suffered by his family or by communities affected by violence.
Panyako alleged that irregularities marred the election process in Malava. He claimed that out of 198 polling stations, 134 had voted in his favor, but manipulation in 54 stations undermined the results.
Were was joined by a team of ODM leaders led by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and lawmakers Peter Kaluma of Homa Bay Town and Lilian Gogo of Rangwe. Also present were MCAs Nicholas Owaka and Florence Ouma. The leaders said the outcome reflected the trust residents continued to place in ODM.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) confirmed that Were collected 16,819 votes, surpassing independent candidate Philip Aroko, who received 8,476 votes.
The group was apprehended near Agoro Sare High School, the designated center for tallying results. Police also seized five vehicles linked to the suspects, which officers said were being used to facilitate their movements across the area
Any lost time at opening will be recovered at closing, and voters in the queue by 5 pm will be allowed to vote.
The Commission noted that disturbances in the area have been worsening, prompting a coordinated response from all three agencies. Preparations across the 22 electoral areas are progressing well, with polling officials fully recruited and trained, and logistical teams deployed to key locations. Distribution of election materials is ongoing and expected to conclude before polling day.
The injured officers were taken to Rachuonyo South Sub-County Hospital for treatment. Police have since launched a manhunt to re-arrest the suspects and trace those who organized the mob assault.
The commission has sent a team to investigate the clashes and collect facts that will guide actions against anyone found responsible. Ethekon warned that the IEBC will not hesitate to apply penalties under the Elections Act, which can include disqualification of candidates who fail to adhere to the Code of Conduct.
The five individuals, produced under a court order, face charges related to the MP’s murder. Each listed personal effects taken at the time of arrest, including wristwatches, clothing, money, birth certificates, and medical records. Some items have already been returned, while others remain in police custody.