NAIROBI, Kenya- Amnesty International Kenya has condemned violence, attacks on journalists, destruction of property and disruption of media broadcasts reported during political activities in Homa Bay County.
In a statement issued on Sunday, August 16, the human rights organisation also accused security agencies of failing to take timely and effective action to protect citizens amid escalating tensions surrounding political activities in the county.
Amnesty said it was particularly concerned by reports that mobs targeted accommodation facilities allegedly suspected of hosting Linda Mwananchi leaders or their supporters.
“We are deeply alarmed by reports that hired mobs targeted accommodation facilities suspected to be hosting Linda Mwananchi leaders or their supporters for destruction and vandalism,” the organisation said.
It also raised concerns over alleged attacks on journalists, unlawful road blockades, intimidation and disruption of media broadcasts.
Amnesty raises security concerns
The organisation said the incidents threatened rights guaranteed under Kenya’s Constitution, including freedom of expression, media freedom, access to information, freedom of movement, peaceful assembly and political participation.
Amnesty said the State has a constitutional and legal responsibility to protect all people without discrimination and ensure they can exercise their rights without fear of violence or intimidation.
It warned that failure by authorities to prevent or respond to foreseeable violence could undermine public confidence in the rule of law and democratic institutions.
Calls for independent investigations
Amnesty International Kenya called on the National Police Service and other relevant authorities to immediately restore security and protect journalists, human rights defenders, political actors, businesses and residents in Homa Bay.
It demanded prompt, independent, impartial and transparent investigations into reported incidents, including attacks on journalists, destruction of property, disruption of media broadcasts, intimidation and restrictions on movement.
The organisation said anyone found responsible should be held accountable, regardless of whether they are private individuals, political actors or public officials.
Amnesty also called for an independent review of the conduct of security agencies to establish whether there were failures to prevent violence, protect victims or uphold constitutional rights.
Political leaders urged to avoid incitement
The organisation further called on the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), National Police Service and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to investigate allegations of incitement to violence and hate speech.
Where evidence supports criminal wrongdoing, Amnesty said appropriate prosecutions should follow, including in cases involving political leaders accused of inciting attacks against opponents, journalists or members of the public.
The statement comes after a tense day in Homa Bay, where political convoys were reportedly attacked, roads barricaded and journalists assaulted while covering activities linked to the Linda Mwananchi movement.
AFP journalists Fred Ooko and Brian Ongoro were among media workers reportedly attacked while covering the unfolding events.
Siaya Governor James Orengo’s convoy was also attacked in Ndhiwa, forcing the team to turn back temporarily, while police used tear gas to disperse groups confronting the convoy.
Warning ahead of 2027 elections
Amnesty International Kenya said the events should serve as a warning as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.
The organisation called on authorities to demonstrate commitment to constitutional freedoms, media independence and equal protection under the law.
“Impunity for violence and political intimidation has no place in a democratic society,” said George Morara, Executive Director of Amnesty International Kenya.
Amnesty urged authorities to act decisively against violations and ensure the rights and freedoms of residents of Homa Bay and other Kenyans are protected.
