Philip Aroko has denied claims that he ordered an attack on Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma during the voting exercise at Agoro Sare Primary School.
In an interview on Monday, December 1, Aroko said he was at the school to monitor the voting process and insisted he did not mobilize anyone against the MP.
He explained that he encountered Kaluma at the centre along with other leaders amid reports of voter bribery.
Aroko Refutes Claims of Ordering Assault on MP Peter Kaluma. Photo: Courtesy.
Aroko noted that the school had around 5,000 registered voters and that, as a candidate, he was allowed to move around the polling areas to observe the voting process.
Aroko stated that he greeted Kaluma and cautioned him against any wrongdoing, but the crowd reacted before he could finish speaking.
He explained that he had approached the MP while checking on the voting areas, identifying himself as a fellow ODM member, but was interrupted by people shouting at Kaluma.
Aroko said the video footage shows him moving with Kaluma in an attempt to protect him as the situation escalated, but the large crowd made it impossible to control the events that followed.
He noted that he eventually withdrew to his car amid the chaos, with police also present.
Kaluma was attacked while accompanying ODM candidate Boyd Were.
Reports indicate that chaos erupted when a group of assailants confronted the MP shortly after his arrival. During the scuffle, Kaluma’s bodyguard reportedly lost his firearm.
The lawmaker sustained head injuries, with blood visible on his neck and chest as he was escorted from the scene.
Kaluma directly blamed Aroko, alleging that his supporters attempted to intimidate voters and disrupt the polling process.
