MACHAKOS, Kenya – Wiper Patriotic Front Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has condemned the attack on Siaya Governor James Orengo during a political engagement in Migori, accusing security agencies of using excessive force and questioning the government’s commitment to protecting public officials.
Kalonzo spoke on Sunday after attending a morning service at the Salvation Army Church in Tala, Matungulu Constituency, Machakos County.
In a statement shared on X, the former Vice President linked the Migori incident to wider concerns over accountability, the conduct of security agencies and the protection of constitutional rights.
“Teargassing a sitting governor and torching his car, barely two days after the Ruto regime promised to uphold the Constitution, tells you exactly how much that promise was worth,” Kalonzo wrote.
Orengo convoy attacked in Migori
Orengo was addressing a Linda Mwananchi gathering in Migori Town on Saturday when chaos erupted.
Tear gas and stones disrupted the political engagement, forcing the governor and members of his team to retreat.
The situation later escalated in Awendo, where a vehicle in Orengo’s convoy was set on fire.
The Siaya governor said his vehicle had been sprayed with live bullets before it was torched.
“They swore we’d never set foot in Migori. They failed,” Orengo said.
He added: “You can’t burn down a movement, and you will never intimidate me.”
The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of political leaders and supporters as parties and political movements intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kalonzo questions security operations
Kalonzo used the Migori incident to raise broader questions about the conduct and accountability of public institutions.
He cited several issues, including controversy surrounding the new police uniforms, the TSC forms controversy, the alleged grabbing of 4,000 acres in Taita Taveta and concerns surrounding recruitment into the security services.
The Wiper leader called for police and military recruitment to be conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner.
He argued that Kenya’s security services should reflect the country’s diversity while remaining committed to protecting the Constitution and serving the public.
Kalonzo clarified that his criticism was not directed at the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), which he said he holds in “the highest regard”.
He stressed the importance of protecting the professionalism and integrity of the military.
Political violence debate intensifies
The Migori attack has added to a growing political debate over violence at political gatherings and the responsibility of security agencies to protect citizens and political leaders.
The incident follows earlier disruptions during Linda Mwananchi activities in Homa Bay, where clashes left people injured and several vehicles damaged or torched.
Opposition leaders have increasingly demanded stronger protection for political gatherings, arguing that Kenyans should be able to exercise their constitutional rights without intimidation or violence.
The government, meanwhile, has maintained that politically sponsored violence has no place in the country.
President William Ruto has previously said there is no room for political violence, while Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged security agencies to take preventive action against planned disruptions.
The government and opposition have continued to trade accusations over who is responsible for violence surrounding political events.
Kalonzo calls for accountability
Kalonzo also urged the Church to remain firm in promoting accountability, saying institutions such as the Salvation Army could provide an example of service and integrity.
His comments come at a politically sensitive time, with opposition parties seeking to strengthen cooperation and mobilise supporters across the country.
The Linda Mwananchi movement has become one of the platforms through which opposition leaders are conducting grassroots engagements ahead of the 2027 polls.
Orengo backs Meru rally
Despite the attack in Migori, Orengo continued to support the Linda Mwananchi campaign.
He did not attend the movement’s engagement in Meru on Sunday but sent a message of support to opposition leaders and supporters taking part in the rally.
“Standing strong with our colleagues and Linda Mwananchi comrades in Meru today. Go crush it!” Orengo said.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino also sent his apologies to the Meru rally as opposition leaders continued with their mobilisation efforts.
The contrasting events in Migori and Meru have renewed calls for political tolerance and peaceful campaigning as Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election.
