Caroli Omondi: Migori, Homa Bay should learn from Meru rallies

Suba South MP Caroli Omondi has called on political leaders and supporters in Migori and Homa Bay to emulate the peaceful rallies held in Meru County during the Linda Mwananchi movement. Omondi commended residents of Meru and political leaders for allowing opposition activities to proceed without violence, sharply contrasting the situation with recent unrest in Homa Bay and Migori.

In a Sunday, August 30, post on X, Omondi congratulated the Linda Mwananchi Team and thanked the people of Meru County for their peaceful conduct. "Well done, Linda Mwananchi Team. And much appreciation to the people of Meru County and all the political leaders for the peace. Migori and Homa Bay charlatans should learn," he stated.

Omondi's comments came following a violent incident in Migori that disrupted Linda Mwananchi political events, where Siaya Governor James Orengo's vehicle was set on fire. Orengo claimed that live bullets were fired at his vehicle before it was torched and vowed that the political movement would not be intimidated. Earlier, a Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay on August 16 had also turned violent, leaving several people injured and resulting in fatalities.

The violence claimed four lives and injured 46 individuals, including seven in critical condition and four suffering gunshot wounds. The death toll subsequently climbed to four after detectives discovered an unidentified man with a deep cut beneath his chin in Oyugis. The unrest raised concerns over the safety of journalists covering political events, as they were attacked, vehicles were torched, and property damaged.

In response, Omondi praised the Meru rally for its peaceful nature, emphasizing its importance as an example for other counties hosting the movement. The Meru visit, which included Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other opposition leaders, had been anticipated despite concerns over potential disruptions. Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza had requested police protection following warnings by youths against accompanying Sifuna to certain parts of the county.