Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has downplayed concerns about potential violence during the Linda Mwananchi rally set for Sunday, August 16, describing such fears as unfounded.
In a statement released on August 12, Wanga emphasized that Homa Bay remains welcoming to all political groups and called on visiting leaders and their supporters to respect the local community and avoid inflammatory actions or remarks.
Political Competition Should Remain Peaceful
Wanga, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), stressed that political rivalry should not be mistaken for personal animosity. She advocated for resolving differences through ideas and the ballot rather than confrontation or violence.
“As ODM chair, I reaffirm that political competition should never be confused with personal hostility. We may hold different political positions, but those differences must be settled through ideas and the ballot, not confrontation or violence,” she said.
Open County, Rejecting Intolerance Claims
The governor reiterated that Homa Bay does not support declaring any region off-limits based on political affiliations, underscoring the county’s commitment to democratic values championed by the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and ODM.
She rejected suggestions that opposition visits might be met with hostility, highlighting the political maturity of Homa Bay residents who have maintained restraint even during periods of heightened tension, such as the June 25 demonstrations.
Wanga also criticized attempts by some visiting leaders to preemptively predict violence, citing previous opposition rallies in Kisumu and Trans Nzoia where violent incidents and fatalities occurred.
Call for Discipline and Security Cooperation
The governor urged ODM supporters and residents to uphold discipline and hospitality during political events. She appealed to visiting political groups to respect the law and assured that local authorities would collaborate with the National Police Service to guarantee security and peaceful exercise of constitutional rights.
Context of Allegations
The assurances come amid accusations by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who alleged that Wanga, Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, and an MCA named Ogindo planned to disrupt the Linda Mwananchi rally by mobilizing goons.
Owino called on security agencies to protect participants and insisted that the rally would proceed as planned, stressing that political differences should not hinder residents from freely choosing their leaders. He referenced President William Ruto's 2022 peaceful campaign in Homa Bay and peaceful Linda Mwananchi events in other counties as examples.
