Homa Bay businesses paralysed as youths barricade CBD entrances

On Saturday evening, August 15, 2026, a group of youths dressed in attire affiliated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) launched a coordinated assault on a tourist hotel situated at Homa Bay Pier Lake. The attack unfolded around 8 pm, with the youths invading the hotel, causing extensive damage to property, and stealing various items. Hotel management promptly reported the incident to the authorities.

Upon receiving the report, police officers swiftly arrived at the scene, only to find the youths had already fled the premises on motorcycles. The police were subsequently criticized for their lack of response, as the hotel manager described the youths as having vandalized and pilfered stationery, accessories, and furniture within the hotel.

Police proceeded to initiate an investigation to identify the culprits and recover the stolen property, but as of Sunday morning, no arrests had been made and the value of the damages and stolen items remained undetermined. The incident coincided with heightened tensions in Homa Bay Town, where a planned rally by the Linda Mwananchi group was set to take place. Simultaneously, there were reports of hired goons obstructing major roads using boulders and twigs, disrupting traffic flow throughout the town.

As early as 6 am on Sunday, various groups were traversing the area, with little to no presence of law enforcement. There were concerns that the situation could escalate into chaos prior to the rally. A local politician was also seen inciting violence, directing a mob to attack anyone singing the slogan "Tutam." Despite assurances from the Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and the Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, that the rally would be peaceful, the situation remained volatile.

The Linda Mwananchi leaders had deliberately arrived in the town ahead of the rally, fueled by tensions and the absence of police oversight. Calls for peaceful rallies across the country in anticipation of the 2027 elections had been echoed in various regions. As the situation unfolded, the police confirmed they were actively investigating the developments and would strive to bring order back to the town.