Former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati has claimed that he was attacked by a group of goons at Asumbi Junction while traveling to Homa Bay.
In a statement on August 16, Wangamati said the incident occurred as he and his team were heading to Homa Bay to attend the Linda Mwananchi rally.
He condemned the incident as political intolerance and said he hoped such incidents would end. Despite the alleged attack, Wangamati said he proceeded with his journey and arrived in Homa Bay.
“Attacked by goons at Asumbi Junction on our way to Homa Bay. This type of political intolerance will one day come to an end. Nevertheless, we have arrived in Homa Bay,” he said.
Linda Mwananchi Rally in Homa Bay Marked by Tension and Disruptions
The Linda Mwananchi rally is underway in Homa Bay County on Sunday, August 16, 2026, with planned stops in Nyandiwa, Sindo and Homa Bay Town. The political mobilization has been accompanied by reports of clashes, roadblocks and heightened security.
Also Read: Homa Bay Roads Blocked as Tension Mounts Ahead of Linda Mwananchi Rally
This movement is associated with opposition leaders including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Suba South MP Caroli Omondi.
It has presented itself as a platform for accountability and opposition to the broad-based government arrangement involving sections of ODM and President William Ruto’s administration.
Leaders Arrive as Security Tightens
The Linda Mwananchi convoy has been moving through parts of Homa Bay, with leaders including Sifuna, Orengo and Babu Owino reported to have arrived or been traveling towards Homa Bay Town.
Tensions were reported in several areas, including Nyandiwa Center, where youths reportedly erected road barricades. There were also reports of tires being set ablaze at Oyugis Junction and running battles in Homa Bay Town.
Also Read: Orengo, Babu Owino Issue Warning Ahead of Linda Mwananchi Rally in Homa Bay
Police maintained a heavy presence in parts of the county, with roadblocks and vehicle searches reported along routes leading to the rally venues. Some shops in Homa Bay Town were also reported to have closed amid the disruptions.
Several incidents involving individuals linked to the rally were reported. Former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati said he was attacked at Asumbi Junction while traveling to Homa Bay. Reports also indicated that Orengo’s convoy was attacked in Nyandiwa.
AFP correspondent Fred Ooko was also reportedly assaulted and robbed of his camera and license while covering events in Homa Bay Town.
The rally follows similar Linda Mwananchi events held in parts of Western Kenya and comes amid divisions within ODM over its engagement with the government.
Organizers have maintained that the rallies are intended to promote peaceful constitutional assembly, while local leaders, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, have called for calm and cautioned against violence and the carrying of weapons.
The situation remained fluid as of Sunday morning, with continued reports from the ground on the movement of leaders, security operations and disruptions around the planned rally venues.
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