Kaluma warns Linda Mwananchi over Wantam slogans in Homa Bay

Homa Bay's MP Peter Kaluma has cautioned the Linda Mwananchi movement against using what he called "meaningless" "Wantam" slogans during their campaign in the county. In a recent social media post, Kaluma reminded the movement's leaders that the airstrip, piers and roads used during their visits were constructed under President William Ruto's administration.

"When you come to Homa Bay, please remember the Airstrip, the piers and the roads you land, anchor and drive on as you shout your meaningless 'wantam' political slogans have been built by President William Ruto," Kaluma stated.

The MP also criticized Deputy President William Ruto's rival, nomination candidate for Homa Bay State Senator Musalia Mudavadi (Gachagua), for failing to invest in the region during his tenure. "Your Gachagua built nothing here and never cared to know we exist," Kaluma lamented.

Tensions have been running high as the Linda Mwananchi movement prepares to embark on its Homa Bay tour. Unrest erupted in Oyugis Junction on Sunday morning, August 16, 2026, with tyres being burned. Concerns grew over possible disruptions as supporters prepared to attend scheduled rallies. In Nyandiwa, where the movement planned to hold its first rally at 10 am, heightened tensions were reported ahead of the arrival of Senator Edwin Sifuna and his allies.

Kaluma reiterated his loyalty to the ODM Party and the broader coalition government, distancing himself from the opposition-linked mobilisation. "We are in the ODM Party. We're in the Broad Based Government. We support President Ruto and we’ll vote for him in 2027," he asserted.

As political divisions deepen in Homa Bay, calls for police to ensure rally-goers' safety have grown louder. Siaya Governor James Orengo and Suba South MP Caroli Omondi urged the police to guarantee the security of rally participants. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo also assured Kenyans that law enforcement agencies would maintain order, emphasizing citizens' right to peaceful travel and expression of political opinions.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has also urged political actors and their supporters to avoid confrontation and practice political tolerance. The Linda Mwananchi movement's itinerary includes rallies in Nyandiwa, Sindo and Homa Bay Town, with the main event taking place in the afternoon. As political temperatures continue to rise, observers will be watching to see if the rallies will proceed peacefully, free from intimidation, violence or disruption.