The government has assured the Linda Mwananchi movement of adequate security during its upcoming tour of Homa Bay County, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo confirmed.
Addressing concerns raised by the group over alleged intimidation by rival ODM supporters, Dr Omollo emphasized that all political actors have the democratic right to visit any part of the country, provided they comply with the law.
"Everyone is free to go anywhere. The expectation is that we must observe law and order," said Omollo, reassuring the movement ahead of their planned rally on August 15, 2026.
Linda Mwananchi, linked to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and MPs Babu Owino and Caroli Omondi, has been mobilizing support nationwide as the 2027 General Election approaches.
The group had expressed fears of planned disruptions during their Homa Bay visit, accusing local leaders of mobilizing goons to obstruct their rallies. Caroli Omondi alleged, "We have very elaborate plans to mete out violence against us and the people of Homa Bay County during our tour next Sunday." Governor Orengo vowed to proceed undeterred, stating his readiness to face any challenges in the pursuit of democracy.
Omollo highlighted the government's extensive security preparations ahead of the 2027 elections, drawing lessons from previous polls, including the 2022 General Election.
"We have an elaborate security plan for before, during, and after the elections," he said, adding that mechanisms promoting national cohesion, civic education, and dialogue are being strengthened through platforms led by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC).
The PS also warned against criminal activities masquerading as political contestation, revealing that security agencies have identified and are engaging suspected troublemakers.
Speaking at Kabete National Polytechnic during the launch of the Brace4Peace programme, a partnership between the Kenyan government, the Korean government, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Omollo linked peacebuilding efforts with youth empowerment.
The initiative targets vulnerable youth and women in counties including Isiolo, Samburu, Kisumu, Kilifi, and Nairobi, providing skills training and livelihood support to reduce vulnerability to criminal influences.
"This programme complements government efforts like the Nyota programme to equip young people with skills and opportunities for self-reliance," Omollo noted.
