Philip Aroko Hits Campaign Trail after Acquittal in MP Ong'ondo Were’s Murder Case: "Sijawahi Ua"
- Philip Aroko received massive support during a dramatic homecoming rally ahead of a tense parliamentary by-election
- According to photos shared, constituents gathered in large numbers, signalling a potential political shift as campaigns heat up following his recent acquittal
- While responding to critics, he highlighted his achievements despite not holding office and emphasised the importance of peace in the constituency
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Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.
Homa Bay: Kasipul Constituency is preparing for a crucial by-election following the tragic assassination of its former Member of Parliament, Ong'ondo Were.
Source: Facebook
Were was gunned down in Nairobi on April 30, just minutes after leaving Parliament. The shooting occurred at the City Mortuary roundabout, where he was ambushed by a gunman on a motorcycle.
Who are the contestants in the Kasipul by-election?
As the constituency readies for the by-election, a growing list of hopefuls has emerged, each seeking to fill the vacant seat.
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Among the prominent contenders are Boyd Were, son of the late MP, seasoned politician Philip Aroko, Robert Ajwang, popularly known as 'Money Bior', and humanitarian Newton Ogada.
Aroko, who had previously been implicated in Were’s murder, was recently acquitted by the courts. His return to Kasipul has been marked by a dramatic political reawakening.
He held a grand homecoming celebration on Friday, July 25, that drew a massive crowd. Emotions ran high as his mother tearfully embraced him, surrounded by supporters who expressed both relief and excitement.
Source: Facebook
What did Aroko say during his homecoming?
Addressing the gathering, Aroko used the platform to reaffirm his commitment to serve the people of Kasipul.
“East or west, there’s no place like home, and today, I felt that truth more than ever. This love is not bought or staged. It’s real, it’s organic, and I feel it deeply. Your overwhelming support has reignited a flame of service in me," he said.
In a passionate speech, Aroko pledged to transform Kasipul into a beacon of development and peace.
“Together, we are laying the foundation for a new chapter—where Goodlife is not just a slogan, but a lived reality. It’s time to elevate Kasipul to the national stage and claim our rightful share of the national cake.”
The MP aspirant emphasised the need to strengthen the local economy, citing Oyugis town as the economic heartbeat of Homa Bay county.
He stressed that small businesses and everyday hustles should be at the centre of local development.
Has Aroko contributed to Kasipul's development?
While he avoided delving into the details of his time in court, Aroko acknowledged the power of community prayers and support during his legal ordeal.
“What happened to me, I don't want to talk about it. Your prayers are the reason I came back home. I have never killed anyone—I only hustle, and life continues.”
He also challenged critics who question his contributions to the constituency, stating that 'even without being in office, I have built roads, given out bursaries, drilled boreholes, and helped the less privileged. What more is someone trying to tell me?'
Furthermore, Aroko appealed for peaceful politics and voter empowerment.
“Kasipul has the opportunity to choose its leaders, not have them imposed. Vote for me, and come ask me how I’ve used your votes. Above all, let us return our constituency to the path of peace. We have lacked peace for far too long.”
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is expected to announce the by-election date soon.
13 diplomats urge support for IEBC
Meanwhile, a group of diplomats from 13 Western nations urged Kenya to give the new IEBC team adequate time and space to fulfil its mandate.
They emphasised the need for an environment that supports the commission’s independence and effective operation.
The envoys also called for timely budgetary support from the National Assembly and Treasury while encouraging steps to ensure all eligible citizens are registered and able to vote.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
