LSK President Charles Kanjama demands action against Homa Bay violence perpetrators

The President of the Law Society of Kenya, Charles Kanjama, has strongly condemned the violence that occurred during the Linda Mwananchi political tour in Homa Bay. In a statement on social media, Kanjama described the violence as "deplorable, unacceptable violence, intolerance and political goonism" and called on the justice system to punish those responsible, compensate victims and protect individuals exercising their constitutional rights.

The clashes, which took place on Sunday, August 16, 2026, resulted in the death of a police officer and injuries to several others. Media crews covering the political activities also reported attacks, intimidation, and destruction of their equipment. The Linda Mwananchi movement has claimed that the violence was a coordinated and premeditated attack, involving people including police officers and state security operatives.

In response to the violence, the National Police Service has arrested 37 suspected gang members, indicating that authorities are treating the incident as a criminal matter rather than a political confrontation. However, investigators now face the challenge of identifying who participated in the attacks, who organized them, and whether any political networks were involved.

The violence has also led to political confrontations involving Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, with the Linda Mwananchi movement demanding their arrest and prosecution for making inflammatory remarks.

Additionally, concerns have been raised about the safety of journalists covering political events, as they reported being attacked while performing their duties. Media workers' organizations have called for accountability to ensure journalists can safely cover political campaigns as the country approaches the 2027 elections.