MERU, Kenya – Suba South MP Caroli Omondi has challenged political leaders and supporters in Migori and Homa Bay to emulate Meru County, where a Linda Mwananchi rally was held peacefully despite growing political tensions.
Omondi praised residents and political leaders in Meru for allowing the opposition movement to conduct its activities without violence, contrasting the calm rally with recent clashes witnessed during Linda Mwananchi events in Homa Bay and Migori.
In a post on X on Sunday, August 30, following the Linda Mwananchi rally in Meru, Omondi congratulated the movement and thanked residents for maintaining peace.
“Well done, Linda Mwananchi Team. And much appreciation to the people of Meru County and all the political leaders for the peace. Migori and Homa Bay charlatans should learn,” Omondi said.
Migori rally disrupted by violence
Omondi’s remarks came a day after violence disrupted Linda Mwananchi political activities in Migori County.
Siaya Governor James Orengo’s vehicle was attacked after a rally in Awendo and later set on fire.
Orengo said his vehicle was targeted by attackers who fired live bullets before torching it.
Despite the incident, the governor vowed that the attack would not derail his political activities or the wider Linda Mwananchi movement.
“You can’t burn down a movement, and you will never intimidate me,” Orengo said in a statement following the attack.
The incident has heightened concerns over political violence as opposition leaders intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Homa Bay clashes raised security concerns
The Migori violence came less than two weeks after clashes disrupted a Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay County on August 16.
The Homa Bay confrontation left dozens of people injured, with reports indicating that 46 people were injured, including seven who were in critical condition and four who suffered gunshot wounds.
Several vehicles were also torched during the clashes.
The death toll later rose to four after detectives discovered the body of an unidentified man with a deep cut beneath the chin in the Oyugis area.
Police launched investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the death.
The violence also raised concerns about the safety of journalists covering political events.
Several journalists covering the Homa Bay rally were attacked, while vehicles were torched and other property was damaged.
Meru rally offers contrasting picture
Omondi used the occasion to urge leaders and their supporters in the two counties to demonstrate greater political tolerance and allow rival political groups to conduct their activities peacefully.
The Meru rally was part of a wider mobilisation campaign by Linda Mwananchi, a political movement that has increasingly featured opposition leaders seeking to build grassroots support ahead of the 2027 elections.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other opposition figures have been at the centre of the mobilisation drive.
Meru tour had also faced concerns
Despite the peaceful outcome, the Meru visit had initially attracted concerns over possible disruptions.
Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza had called for police protection after some youth reportedly warned her against accompanying Sifuna to parts of the county.
The concerns did not prevent the movement from holding its activities.
The successful rally has since been cited by supporters as an example of how political competition can take place without violence.
