Kaluma Faces Scrutiny Over Threatening Political Remarks

In an undated video addressing a small crowd, the legislator declared the phrase prohibited within Homa Bay County and warned of severe consequences for anyone using it. He spoke in his native Luo language while outlining measures he said would be taken against those associated with the opposing camp.

Kaluma specifically cautioned hotel owners in the town against accommodating individuals linked to the one-term group, threatening firm action against any establishment that did so. He indicated that groups of youth would be sent to inspect hotels and houses, stating that he had already paid for the fuel needed for their movement across Homa Bay and Rodi. “We are going to inspect all hotels and houses where they had booked. Anyone who owns a hotel in Homa Bay must tell us all the guests they have. We must deal with those people and we might deal with the hotel too,” he said, adding that those who could not align with his side must disappear.

The comments came shortly before the Linda Mwananchi faction made a forceful entry into Homa Bay on Sunday, an event that descended into chaos as youthful groups disrupted the procession. On the preceding Saturday evening, a group of youths raided the Homa Bay Tourist Hotel, shattering windows, destroying furniture and equipment, and making off with some items. Hotel manager Robert Odongo reported the incident to police, who confirmed the vandalism and theft after the attackers had already fled on motorbikes.

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission has remained largely silent on Kaluma’s specific remarks while condemning the hotel attack as a threat to peace. The body has begun summoning political actors it considers responsible for the unrest. Opposition-aligned legislators have criticised the response, with Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina accusing security and cohesion agencies of selective enforcement. “When other leaders make polarising remarks, you are quick to take action and arrest them within 24 hours. Peter Kaluma has made serious remarks, yet he continues to walk free,” she stated during a church service.

These developments unfold amid rising political tensions as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election. The Linda Mwananchi group, which includes figures such as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and others, has been conducting public engagements aimed at mobilising opposition to the current administration. Accusations of sponsored violence continue to surface from various political quarters, heightening concerns over the climate surrounding upcoming electoral contests.