Pre-Rally Violence Flares Up in Western Kenya's Homa Bay

A wave of violence swept through Homa Bay, a town in western Kenya, on Sunday morning, an AFP correspondent reported. This unrest unfolded just hours before an anticipated opposition rally, where political figures had previously voiced concerns about potential assaults from armed individuals. Kenya is gearing up for national elections in less than a year, with incumbent President William Ruto aiming for re-election. Opposition politicians have increasingly highlighted a hostile political atmosphere, while observers have expressed alarm over the deployment of armed groups, locally known as "goons," to disrupt political assemblies.

The Linda Mwananchi movement, an opposition faction focused on channelling public discontent with President Ruto's administration, had scheduled a rally in Homa Bay for Sunday, featuring potential presidential candidate Edwin Sifuna. The AFP journalist on the ground detailed a scene of disarray in the town centre early Sunday. "Goons" were observed assaulting pedestrians and seizing their belongings. Numerous men, some wielding sticks and machetes, moved through the streets, setting tyres ablaze and erecting makeshift barriers on the main thoroughfare. The reporter noted a complete absence of police within the town itself, though officers were seen on the outskirts, preventing people from entering the central area. By shortly before midday, the situation in Homa Bay remained tumultuous, according to the AFP account. Social media footage and images, which AFP could not independently verify, depicted debris scattered across a primary road and burning tyres.

Prior to the rally, leaders of the Linda Mwananchi movement had informed local media that "goons" were being mobilised to disrupt their political gathering. However, Gladys Wanga, the Governor of Homa Bay County, refuted these allegations. In a statement to local press on Thursday, she affirmed that all political groups would be welcomed, stating, "We may hold different political positions, but those differences must be settled through ideas and the ballot, not confrontation or violence."

Meanwhile, James Orengo, the Governor of Siaya County, located north of Homa Bay, reported that convoys heading to the rally were attacked by "goons." He expressed his dismay to local reporters, saying, "This is not the Kenya we want." Orengo further lamented the situation, adding, "Anarchy is the one prevailing," and asserted that "the police have totally surrendered their authority to the goons."

In response to the escalating situation, Kenyan police spokesperson Michael Muchiri released a statement on Sunday, assuring the public of "safety and security." He also confirmed that 15 individuals had been apprehended on Saturday. Muchiri stated, "Preliminary investigations indicate that they are hired criminals who allegedly planned to disrupt political activities in the area." The police statement also cautioned politicians and event organisers against "incitement, provocation, or any conduct likely to breach the peace," while stressing that officers would remain "strictly non-partisan."