KISII, Kenya — One person has died following an attack on a Linda Mwananchi convoy in Kisii County, intensifying concerns over political violence and prompting fresh calls for accountability from security agencies.
The deceased, 36-year-old Vincent Osiemo, popularly known as Mapinduzi, succumbed to injuries sustained after the convoy was ambushed by a group of youths armed with stones and clubs in the Keumbu area on Friday.
According to his family, Osiemo was travelling in the convoy as opposition leaders headed towards Keroka when the attackers struck. Videos circulating on social media showed vehicles attempting to speed away as stones were hurled at the convoy.
Fatal attack
Witnesses said the violence erupted as the convoy slowed down at a speed bump in Keumbu.
“Osiemo was in my vehicle. As we slowed down at the Keumbu bump, youths started pelting us with stones. He was thrown out of the vehicle and continued being hit by stones as the attack intensified,” said Wilkins Michira, Osiemo’s employer.
Osiemo, a father of three from Gionseri Village in Bobasi Constituency, was rushed to Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
His family described him as a dependable breadwinner whose death has left them devastated.
“This family has lost a courageous young man, and he was our pillar of support,” said his brother, Oscar Osiemo.
He appealed for restraint, warning against a return to politically motivated violence.
“We do not want a repeat of the 2007 violence. Why must people be killed because of politics?” he said.
Investigations underway
Police have arrested eight suspects in connection with the attack as investigations continue.
Detectives have also summoned Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda to record a statement as part of the ongoing probe into the violence.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed the circumstances that prompted the summons or whether further arrests are expected.
Opposition faults security agencies
The incident has triggered strong reactions from opposition leaders, who accused the government of failing to provide adequate security during political activities.
Former Chief Justice and presidential aspirant David Maraga called for the resignation of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, arguing that the government had failed in its constitutional responsibility to protect citizens.
“We now demand the immediate resignation of CS Murkomen. They are part of this gang,” Maraga said.
Bomachoge Borabu MP Obadiah Barongo also criticised the security response, urging politicians to stop exploiting young people for violence.
“Young people should not be misused by politicians. We squarely blame the security forces for what is happening. If they are not ready to protect us, we shall also repulse them,” Barongo said.
Growing concern over political violence
The killing has renewed concerns over rising political tensions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kenya’s Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions peacefully, while the State has a duty to safeguard life and property during public gatherings.
Osiemo’s family has urged investigators to fast-track the case and ensure all those responsible for the Keumbu attack are brought to justice.