Siaya Governor James Orengo has accused political rivals of orchestrating violent disruptions during his tour of Homa Bay County, claiming members of his entourage were seriously injured after armed groups descended on his convoy.
The Friday incident unfolded as the governor traversed parts of Suba North and Suba South under the banner of the Linda Mwananchi movement, a political initiative he has been championing across the country ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Orengo had earlier addressed residents in Mbita, Rusinga and Sindo, where he spoke on governance, economic hardship and the national political climate.
However, tension escalated later in the day when his convoy reportedly encountered barricaded roads lined with burning tyres, stones and massive boulders.
According to the governor, groups of youths attacked vehicles travelling with his team, smashing windscreens and forcing supporters to flee in confusion.
“This country belongs to all Kenyans, and every leader has a constitutional right to move freely and engage citizens anywhere,” Orengo said after the incident.
“What we witnessed was not political competition but organised lawlessness,” he added.
The Siaya county chief said two of his close supporters sustained severe injuries during the confrontation and were taken to hospital for emergency treatment.
“One victim suffered very serious injuries and is receiving medical attention, while another was badly hurt though his condition is stable,” he stated.
Several other supporters escaped with minor injuries as panic spread among those accompanying the governor’s delegation.
Despite the violence, Orengo maintained that the public meetings drew large crowds, particularly traders and women who, he said, temporarily abandoned their businesses to attend the rallies.
“The reception was overwhelming. People came out in large numbers because they want leaders who listen to them and address their struggles,” he added.
The governor further alleged that tear gas was used during the chaos, prompting suspicion that rogue security personnel could have been involved in the confrontation.
He said the matter would be formally reported to law enforcement agencies for investigation.
“We believe in the rule of law and we will follow the proper channels, but the nature of what happened raises serious questions,” Orengo said.
He also revealed that his official security detail had allegedly been withdrawn, leaving him concerned about his personal safety amid heightened political tensions.
“I no longer enjoy the security protection I am entitled to as governor. I rely on wananchi for safety, but incidents like these are worrying,” he noted.
In an emotional statement, the veteran politician referenced the deaths of prominent Kenyan figures Tom Mboya and Robert Ouko, warning against a return to politically motivated violence.
“I have dedicated my life to fighting for justice and democracy in this country. I hope history will not repeat itself because of political intolerance,” Orengo said.
The governor insisted that intimidation would not derail the Linda Mwananchi movement, saying the campaign would continue engaging citizens across the country despite resistance from opponents.
“We will not answer violence with violence. Democracy demands tolerance, dialogue and respect for differing opinions,” he stated.
The incident is expected to deepen political friction in the region as alliances and rivalries linked to the 2027 elections continue to emerge.
Leave a comment