Orengo accuses rivals of assassination attempt in Migori

Siaya Governor James Orengo has labeled an attack on his convoy in Migori as a violent assassination attempt, alleging his convoy was firebombed and later set alight as political tensions rose surrounding his Linda Mwananchi movement. The alleged incident unfolded after a chaotic rally in Migori on August 29, with tear gas deployed against the governor and his entourage as they addressed supporters.

Video footage captured the governor and his team fleeing the scene amid the chaos. A vehicle linked to the convoy was subsequently torched in Awendo.

In a subsequent statement, Orengo expressed gratitude to locals for their presence despite the attacks aimed at dissuading the movement from Migori. He directly accused his assailants of attempting his murder, asserting, "Your desperate violence only proves your fear." Orengo, a leading figure in the Linda Mwananchi movement and a declared presidential contender for 2027, vowed not to back down from his political pursuits.

"You thought you eliminated me, but I am always steps ahead. You can’t burn down a movement, and you will never intimidate me."

The Migori incident adds to concerns over escalating political violence in Nyanza, following similar unrest in Homa Bay County two weeks prior. Homa Bay witnessed road blockades, clashes, property destruction, and attacks on media personnel as the Linda Mwananchi movement attempted to traverse the county. Six vehicles were burned, and property valued in the millions was destroyed.

Seventeen suspects were apprehended, and several individuals sustained injuries. Roads were blocked by stones and logs as rival factions confronted each other ahead of the movement's planned events.

The Linda Mwananchi leadership subsequently called for investigations into the violence, alleging deliberate targeting of their rallies. They accused security agencies of being unresponsive despite advance warnings of impending disruptions. These allegations have been contested, and the circumstances surrounding the violence remain under investigation. The Homa Bay clashes have fueled discussions over whether political competition is increasingly resorting to violence ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

The Migori incident has intensified these concerns. While the Homa Bay violence primarily involved property damage and clashes, Orengo's allegation of live ammunition being fired at his vehicle is more severe. However, this claim requires verification through investigations, including forensic analysis of the vehicle and any ballistic evidence collected.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and other security agencies are tasked with determining the details of the confrontation, identifying the perpetrators, and establishing if the reported shooting was connected to the political rally.

Political leaders have condemned the Migori attack. Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro called it "totally unacceptable" and cautioned against the use of violence in political contests. Orengo's supporters view the incident as an attempt to intimidate the movement, while critics anticipate demands for a comprehensive investigation to ascertain responsibility.