Journalists Beaten Amid Rising Tension in Homa Bay,Linda Mwananchi Rally
Two journalists suffered injuries on Sunday as unrest grew in Homa Bay Town ahead of a major political gathering planned for the same day.
Fred Ooko and Brian Ongoro, both working for AFP, came under attack from a group of armed young men while they documented the charged atmosphere in the area. The assailants seized their press identification cards, driving licenses, cameras and other personal items during the violent encounter, leaving the reporters shaken and without essential equipment.
The pair were pulled along the road and struck repeatedly with clubs until a motorcycle taxi operator stepped in and helped them escape further harm. After reaching safety, the journalists made their way to Homa Bay Police Station to formally report the assault and the theft of their belongings. The incident added to the sense of disorder that had already begun to take hold across the town centre as the day progressed.
Much of Homa Bay Town stood nearly empty as groups of youths blocked multiple roads and interfered with normal movement. Shops stayed shuttered and public transport services faced serious disruption, prompting drivers to look for longer alternative routes while many residents chose to stay clear of the central business area. The atmosphere of caution extended to places of worship, with several churches remaining closed due to concerns over safety linked to the expected political activities.
Meanwhile the Linda Mwananchi group, headed by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna together with Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino, Suba South Member of Parliament Caroli Omondi and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, had already arrived in Suba South Constituency. The leaders planned to address supporters at venues in Nyandiwa and Sindo as part of their continuing visits across the region.
The combination of road blockades, closed businesses and the attack on media workers painted a picture of heightened strain in the lakeside town. Local authorities continued to monitor the situation closely while the visiting politicians prepared to proceed with their scheduled public meetings despite the obstacles encountered on the ground.
