The Linda Mwananchi Movement has accused the government of sponsoring violence during its Homa Bay tour, alleging that organised groups attacked its convoy, supporters and journalists, leaving one member dead and several others injured.
In a statement issued on Monday, the movement said attackers blocked major highways at several points, including Nyangweso, Olare, Rangwe, Oyugis, Rodi, Mbita and Sindo, and pelted vehicles with stones and other projectiles.
It alleged that some attacks occurred near police posts, claiming officers failed to intervene.
The movement said 18 people received treatment for injuries sustained during the clashes, with 12 evacuated to Kisumu for critical care. It said seven had since been discharged, while one member of its security team was confirmed dead.
“Tragically, one brave member of our security team has been confirmed dead,” the statement said.
It also claimed that nearly all vehicles in its entourage were damaged by stones, gunshots and teargas canisters, while journalists covering the events had their vehicles and equipment damaged or stolen.
The movement estimated the economic losses arising from the disruption at Sh1 billion.
It accused the government of violating constitutional rights to freedom of expression, association and political participation, saying the events demonstrated a failure of “leadership, competence, and constitutionalism”.
The movement further accused President William Ruto’s administration of planning to use violence to influence the 2027 elections, alleging that Nyanza had been identified as a potential centre for electoral malpractice.
“We put Mr Ruto to notice that we are aware of his scheme, and we will not be spectators to the theft of our country’s future and democratic stability,” it said.
The movement demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, accusing them of making inflammatory statements and inciting attacks on its members.
It also called for the resignation of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.
The movement urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to disqualify Wanga and Kaluma from seeking political office, while calling on the international community, including the International Criminal Court, to examine the situation in Kenya.
The accusations come a day after the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay was disrupted, with reports of several supporters being injured and property damaged.