Homa Bay violence: Faith Odhiambo says state-backed group instructed to target Linda Mwananchi

Former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo has warned of growing concerns over violence during the Linda Mwananchi rallies in Homa Bay. She alleged that a state-backed group received official orders to target and harm supporters of the opposition movement. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Odhiambo alleged that the government had been radicalizing and arming youth groups in the region.

She stated that the instructions given to these state-hired individuals were to attack, assault, and potentially kill Linda Mwananchi members who attended or planned to attend the rallies. Odhiambo emphasized that the government agencies, including the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, police, IEBC, and ODPP, should have acted on the information provided by recorded footage of the discussions.

The Linda Mwananchi leaders faced roadblocks, confrontations, and attacks in Homa Bay on Sunday, August 16, with police using teargas and setting tyres ablaze. Siaya Governor James Orengo condemned the attacks, vowing that they would not deter the leaders from continuing their rallies. However, several supporters reported chaotic scenes and confrontations during the rallies, with some alleging that police officers were involved in the violence.

This has led to intensified demands for investigations into the Homa Bay violence and scrutiny of both security officers and political actors.