KISUMU, Kenya- Organisers of the planned ‘Linda Mwananchi’ rally in Kisumu have insisted the event will proceed as scheduled, despite rising political tensions and alleged threats from rival leaders.
The rally is being led by a group of senior ODM rebels, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Siaya Governor James Orengo.
The high-stakes rally, part of a wider political mobilisation across Nyanza and Western regions, has drawn national attention amid fears of possible disruption and violence.
Sifuna and other leaders allied to the movement have maintained a defiant stance, saying they will not be intimidated.
Some politicians allied to the Government and supporting calls for ODM to endorse Ruto in 2027 have publicly issued threats, vowing that the Kisumu gathering will not happen.
Security concerns have also intensified following recent incidents, including an attack on a senior politician in Kisumu earlier this month, which heightened fears of escalating political violence.
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has condemned attempts to block the rally, warning that such actions undermine constitutional freedoms and political expression.
At the same time, religious leaders and civil society groups have called for restraint, urging politicians and supporters to maintain peace and avoid inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the gathering.
Security agencies, led by Inspector General Douglas Kanja, have assured the public that adequate measures have been put in place to guarantee safety. Authorities have warned that individuals planning to disrupt the rally will face firm action, underscoring a zero-tolerance approach to violence.
The Kisumu rally is expected to be a major political moment, reflecting shifting alliances and growing contestation within key political formations in the region.
Members of the grassroots Bunge La Mwananchi movement urged visiting leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and instead focus on presenting their development agenda to residents.
“Our brothers from Linda Mwananchi must be cautious about what they say while in Kisumu. Let them come and sell their agenda to the people,” said Salim Onyango, a member of the local Bunge chapter.
Onyango also criticised what he described as past incidents of political disrespect directed at Oburu Oginga, warning that such conduct risks undermining unity in the region.
“The kind of disrespect we have seen before, especially towards our leaders, is uncalled for. Leaders who thrive on badmouthing others must stop,” he added.
