Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has urged newly elected Kasipul MP Boyd Were to prioritise calm and cohesive leadership as he assumes office following Thursday’s by-election.
His appeal came through a message posted on X, where he congratulated the ODM candidate for winning the seat and encouraged him to foster unity among constituents.
The Kasipul race drew regional attention as it represented another test of ODM’s influence in its Nyanza strongholds, an area that has historically backed the party in both national and local contests.
By retaining the seat, ODM extended its hold on Homa Bay County, where political competition often centres on internal party dynamics rather than rival coalition pressure.
The by-election underscores the party’s ongoing effort to consolidate support ahead of national realignments expected in the coming years.
In his message, Kaluma described Were’s victory as an opportunity to strengthen community ties.
He encouraged the MP-elect to “be the vessel of peace,” noting that residents respond positively to leadership rooted in stability and constructive engagement.
The call reflects longstanding concerns in many rural constituencies where local leaders are expected to balance political expectations with community cohesion.
Kaluma also used the moment to acknowledge Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga for her involvement in ODM’s campaign activities during the mini-poll.
As ODM’s National Chairperson, Wanga has become a central figure in coordinating grassroots mobilisation and strategic communication within the party.
Kaluma praised her “leadership in all the by-election campaigns,” attributing part of ODM’s success to her organisational role.
The by-election, conducted under the oversight of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), proceeded without major disruptions according to early accounts.
While turnout figures were modest, local observers noted a largely orderly voting day, consistent with previous polls in the constituency.
Kasipul’s political terrain has traditionally favoured ODM due to long-standing party networks and consistent voter loyalty.