NAIROBI, Kenya- Two journalists working for Agence France-Presse (AFP), Fred Ooko and Brian Ongoro, were assaulted and robbed by armed youths in Homa Bay Town on Sunday while covering heightened tensions ahead of the planned Linda Mwananchi rally.
The journalists were attacked as political tensions escalated in the town, with groups of youths disrupting movement and running battles breaking out in parts of Homa Bay.
Ooko was attacked by men riding on a motorcycle before the assailants fled with his camera and driving licence.
The journalists were beaten during the incident, while several other media workers were also reportedly injured.
Items taken from the journalists included cameras, press cards, driving licences and other personal belongings.
Armed goons have barricaded key roads in Homa Bay to prevent the Linda Mwananchi team from accessing the venue of their planned rallies.
Journalists attacked amid rising tensions
The attacks came as security concerns intensified across Homa Bay ahead of the Linda Mwananchi political rally.
Police mounted a roadblock along the Katito-Homa Bay road at Orero, where officers were stopping and searching vehicles heading towards Homa Bay Town.
Several businesses in the town remained closed as residents avoided the town centre amid fears of further clashes.
The Linda Mwananchi convoy was travelling towards Homa Bay Town after passing through Rangwe, with leaders scheduled to hold a series of political engagements across the county.
The movement’s programme has been disrupted by confrontations and road blockages in several areas as political tensions rose.
Orengo convoy attacked
The situation deteriorated further in Ndhiwa, where the convoy carrying Siaya Governor James Orengo was reportedly attacked by groups of youths throwing stones.
Police responded by firing tear gas to disperse the groups, with reports also indicating that officers fired shots into the air as they attempted to restore order.
The confrontation forced Orengo’s team to turn back temporarily.
The governor later condemned the attack as unacceptable and questioned the security arrangements in the area.
The incidents have raised fresh concerns over the safety of journalists covering political events, particularly as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.
