Tension is running high in Nyandiwa and Homa Bay Town hours before the much-anticipated Linda Mwananchi Rally scheduled for today, August 16, as organisers and local leaders trade warnings over possible disruption by goons.
The rally, led by the ODM-affiliated Linda Mwananchi faction with Siaya Governor James Orengo and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna at the helm, is expected to draw thousands to Homa Bay — one of ODM’s strongest bastions.
ATTACK ON PLANNERS SPARKS OUTRAGE
Trouble began days ago when suspected goons attacked Linda Mwananchi officials in Homa Bay Town.Police arrested six suspects, including alleged gang leader Abdi Kasim, over the assault on county coordinator Samuel Nyauke, human rights activist Evans Oloo Gor and two others.
The attack happened shortly after organisers notified police of the August 16 event.The arrests triggered running battles: youths lit bonfires, blocked roads, and clashed with police who fired tear gas to disperse protesters. Businesses were disrupted and transport paralysed.
Linda Mwananchi coordinator Samuel Nyauke said the attack was not isolated.“If we cannot be protected by the government to whom we pay taxes, we shall find ways of dealing with our own security issues,” Nyauke warned
PRIOR WARNING ABOUT GOONISM
Religious leaders have condemned the violence and warned against hiring goons.Bishop Abrahams Wanda Odongo said, “The use of goons will cause anarchy in Homa Bay County. It may scare investors and taint the image of the county”. He urged politicians to stop hiring goons to attack opponents.
The warnings echo what happened weeks earlier in Kisii, where Linda Mwananchi leaders said they were stoned by armed goons. Suba South MP Caroli Omondi told supporters: “Let us not allow a government that uses goons instead of security officers”.
Organisers have also issued their own warning. Speaking ahead of the rally, one Linda Mwananchi leader said:“We know that there could be some people who probably are hibernating somewhere and intending to disrupt it. With clarity we tell you… we also welcome you”.
POLITICAL FAULT LINES
The rally is happening in Homa Bay, home to ODM National Chairperson and Governor Gladys Wanga, who has pleaded for calm and for the event to proceed without interruption.
Other local leaders took a harder line. Kwabwai Ward MCA Richard Ogindo threatened residents found wearing Linda Mwananchi-branded T-shirts, while Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma warned the visiting team against calling for President Ruto’s removal.
Governor Orengo remained defiant:“To those using violence to mark territory: Kenya belongs to all Kenyans, not political cartels. No amount of brute force will stop our movement. We will not be intimidated. We will be in Homa Bay”.
SECURITY AND WHAT’S AT STAKE
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem confirmed arrests and said officers had been deployed to restore normalcy. Organisers say they formally notified police as required by law and were assured of security.
Bigger announcements are expected at today’s rally, with leaders describing August 16 as a significant moment for the movement’s agenda.
To those using violence to mark territory: Kenya belongs to all Kenyans, not political cartels. No amount of brute force will stop our movement. We will not be intimidated. We will be in Homa Bay
Governor James orengo
Nyandiwa and Homa Bay Town are on edge. An attack on planners, arrests, protests, and warnings about goons have turned a political rally into a test of tolerance. The question today is not just what Linda Mwananchi will announce, but whether Homa Bay can host it without more violence.
Police have urged calm. Organisers have promised a peaceful event. Religious leaders are asking youth to shun violence and engage in economic activities instead.
Ends…
We’ll keep monitoring developments from Nyandiwa and Homa Bay Town throughout the day and keep you updated
