Tension high in Homa Bay ahead of Linda Mwananchi Rally

Tension has been reported in Homa Bay Town on Sunday morning after roads leading into and out of the town were blocked with large stones ahead of a planned Linda Mwananchi political rally.

Videos circulating online showed sections of the roads barricaded, with some vehicles unable to access the town.

The footage, recorded at around 7am, showed the roadblocks in place as political leaders and supporters prepared for the rally scheduled for Sunday, August 16.

It was not immediately clear who placed the stones on the roads or when the blockades were erected.

The incident comes despite earlier assurances from the government that security would be provided for the rally and those attending it.

Internal Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo had assured leaders of the Linda Mwananchi movement that the government would protect them during the gathering.

Omollo said Kenyans have a constitutional right to hold political meetings anywhere in the country, regardless of their political affiliations.

“Whether they do whichever formation, everybody has a right to go to any part, any corner of the country and converse their issues,” Omollo said.

He, however, urged those attending the rally to observe the law and maintain peace and order.

“The position is very clear, everybody is free to go anywhere while at it; the expectation is that they must observe law and order,” he said.

Omollo further warned that security agencies would take action against individuals who attempt to use political gatherings to cause violence.

“Criminal elements or criminal acts that are either related to politics or political contestation will not be tolerated. We should not allow ourselves to be misused by any political player for their own self-interest,” he said.