Linda Mwananchi Tour Comes Under Attack In Keumbu Kisii

KISII – Growing concerns over political intolerance and organised goonism in Kisii County resurfaced on Friday after the Linda Mwananchi movement’s tour of the Gusii region was disrupted by separate incidents in Kisii Town and Keumbu, leaving several people reportedly injured.

The incidents are the latest in a series of politically linked disturbances that have plagued the county since the 2022 General Election, with repeated cases of violence disrupting rallies, causing injuries and forcing businesses to close during political events.

The Linda Mwananchi delegation, comprising former Chief Justice David Maraga, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and other opposition leaders, had earlier held a peaceful rally at Mosocho before proceeding to Kisii Town.

The rally in Kisii Town concluded without incident until its final moments, when a large group of boda boda riders rode into the town centre chanting “Wantam.” Videos circulating online appear to show the riders moving together after reportedly gathering at another location before entering the town.

Some individuals heard in the videos claim they had been promised KSh1,500 but were instead paid KSh500. Those claims have not been independently verified, and it remains unclear who allegedly organised or paid the group.

The arrival of the riders caused panic among traders and residents, with some businesses reportedly closing as crowds dispersed amid fears that violence could erupt.

The situation reportedly escalated later as the Linda Mwananchi convoy headed towards Keroka.

At Keumbu, the procession was allegedly attacked by groups of youths who pelted vehicles with stones while chanting “Two Tano,” witnesses said. The stone-throwing caused confusion and temporarily disrupted the convoy before it continued with its journey.

Despite the attack, the opposition leaders proceeded to Keroka, where they addressed residents as scheduled.

Several people are reported to have sustained injuries during the day’s incidents, although the exact number had not been confirmed by the time of publication. Police had also not released an official report detailing the circumstances of the disruptions or the extent of the injuries.

Friday’s events have renewed concerns over the rising trend of political violence in Kisii County, where rival political camps have increasingly accused each other of sponsoring gangs to disrupt meetings and intimidate opponents. The repeated confrontations have not only left people injured but have also affected businesses, with traders often forced to shut down whenever tensions flare.

As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, residents and civil society groups are expected to pile pressure on security agencies to ensure politicians are able to campaign peacefully and that those responsible for acts of violence are identified and prosecuted.

Authorities had not commented on the incidents by the time of publication, while leaders from the affected camps were expected to issue statements.