ODM Politician Josephat Ekeno's Children Shot Ahead of Turkana By-Election

Children of an ODM party leader vying for a Ward-Representative seat in Turkana's by-election were on Tuesday shot after allegedly hired goons stormed his house.

Confirming the incident, Turkana Central Sub-County OCPD Joel Kirui stated that the attack on Josphat Ekeno's home saw his 8-year-old and 18-year-old children sustain serious injuries.

The two were rushed to Lodwar County Referral Hospital where they are currently receiving treatment.

Ekeno, who is contesting against Jubilee's Simon Ekai Nang’iro Long'esan, in the Kalokol Ward by-election scheduled for Wednesday is receiving a backing from Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok

In a statement, ODM acting Secretary-General Agnes Zani noted that the younger child was undergoing a critical surgery as a bullet was lodged a few centimetres from the heart.

“One child, an eight-year-old daughter is currently undergoing a delicate operation at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret where a bullet is lodged a few centimetres to the heart,” the statement read in part.

The ambush on the ODM candidate's house came minutes after a fierce night attack on the Orange party's command centre in the area, where gunshots were heard.

Mr Kirui indicated: "The gunman fled. We have launched investigations to ascertain who is behind the attack. This explains the gunshots that were heard in Kalokol town on Tuesday evening."

ODM leaders condemned the attack accusing the Jubilee party of intimidation, harassment and malpractices in the by-election.

"That this happened under the Jubilee regime that constantly reassures Kenyans of their security yet such intimidation and use of force continues unabated."

"The party has also noted that there are reported cases of voter bribery and buying being perpetuated by Jubilee legislators. The party has taken note of this and demands appropriate action," Ms Zani stated.