His concession came shortly after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission announced ODM candidate Boyd Were as the winner with a decisive margin.
Aroko, who ran one of the strongest independent campaigns in Homa Bay County, addressed his supporters early Friday, thanking them for their energy, sacrifice, and loyalty throughout the race.
Aroko, who ran one of the strongest independent campaigns in Homa Bay County, addressed his supporters early Friday, thanking them for their energy, sacrifice, and loyalty throughout the race.
He acknowledged the loss but maintained that the journey had strengthened his resolve and deepened his connection with the people of Kasipul.
“To my cherished constituents and supporters, in Kasipul and across the country, I extend my deepest gratitude for your love and support,” he said.
“To my cherished constituents and supporters, in Kasipul and across the country, I extend my deepest gratitude for your love and support,” he said.
“This journey has been a testament to your commitment and spirit. Every step of this campaign was fueled by your hope for a better constituency.”
Aroko’s team—popularly referred to as Team Otete—ran an unusually robust ground operation for an independent candidate, challenging ODM’s traditional hold on the constituency.
Aroko’s team—popularly referred to as Team Otete—ran an unusually robust ground operation for an independent candidate, challenging ODM’s traditional hold on the constituency.
He credited the campaign’s growth to residents who opened their homes, contributed their time, and stood with him during an emotionally charged contest.
“Team Otete established deep roots in every home, every clan, and every community within Kasipul,” he said. “I remain forever indebted to the people of this great constituency.”
He noted that although the outcome was disappointing to his supporters, it should not weaken their determination or belief in the vision they share for the region.
Despite conceding, Aroko hinted that his political ambitions are far from over. His message carried undertones of future plans, encouraging his supporters to remain united and resilient.
“Let us remember: there is always a next time,” he said.
“Team Otete established deep roots in every home, every clan, and every community within Kasipul,” he said. “I remain forever indebted to the people of this great constituency.”
He noted that although the outcome was disappointing to his supporters, it should not weaken their determination or belief in the vision they share for the region.
Despite conceding, Aroko hinted that his political ambitions are far from over. His message carried undertones of future plans, encouraging his supporters to remain united and resilient.
“Let us remember: there is always a next time,” he said.
“We must not let this moment diminish our resolve. Our journey toward a better Kasipul is far from over.”
The statement signals that Aroko may take another shot at the seat in the 2027 General Election or a future by-election, depending on how the political landscape unfolds.
The final tally placed ODM’s Boyd Were far ahead of the rest of the field, reaffirming the Orange party’s dominance in Homa Bay politics.
The statement signals that Aroko may take another shot at the seat in the 2027 General Election or a future by-election, depending on how the political landscape unfolds.
The final tally placed ODM’s Boyd Were far ahead of the rest of the field, reaffirming the Orange party’s dominance in Homa Bay politics.
According to the official results announced by Kasipul Returning Officer Rebecca Abwakhu, Were garnered 16,819 votes, nearly doubling Aroko’s 8,476 votes.
The announcement triggered celebrations at the constituency tallying centre, where ODM supporters chanted victory songs as senior party leaders joined Were to mark the moment.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma were among those present.
The announcement triggered celebrations at the constituency tallying centre, where ODM supporters chanted victory songs as senior party leaders joined Were to mark the moment.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma were among those present.
Kaluma, who reportedly endured a physical altercation during voting hours, appeared alongside other leaders in a show of unity as the constituency welcomed its new MP-elect.
The Kasipul by-election attracted intense interest due to the shifting tides within local politics and the strong challenge mounted by an independent candidate.
The Kasipul by-election attracted intense interest due to the shifting tides within local politics and the strong challenge mounted by an independent candidate.
While the race was packed with drama, allegations, and sporadic tension, Aroko’s concession helped ease the political temperature.
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