The trail of the August 16 violence in Homa Bay is leading to some powerful names. Among those emerging in connection with what unfolded during the Linda Mwananchi rally are Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Opondo Kaluma.
Reports by KTN News and accounts from the ground point to a planned disruption that left two people dead, including a police officer, dozens injured, vehicles torched and businesses looted.
Armed groups blocked roads with stones, logs and other barriers as the convoy tried to move through the county. Youths carrying machetes and other crude weapons attacked the group, forced some vehicles off course and created scenes of chaos that forced police to use tear gas in several spots.
Investigations and local witnesses have named Abdi Sebo and Henry Ochieng as key figures on the ground that day. Both are described as ODM-linked youth leaders who allegedly led goons and were seen armed. Sources say the two helped coordinate the groups that confronted the Linda Mwananchi team along major routes into Homa Bay Town.
Wanga and Kaluma have been drawn into the picture because of statements and meetings that took place in the days leading up to the rally. Kaluma was recorded addressing supporters and warning against allowing rival leaders into the area. He spoke against the Linda Mwananchi message and urged his side not to give ground. Meetings involving local politicians reportedly took place to organise the response, with claims that some youths were paid between two and four thousand shillings to take part in the roadblocks and confrontations.
Linda Mwananchi leaders have demanded that Wanga and Kaluma be arrested and held to account. They say the two leaders either organised or failed to stop the violence that happened under their watch in the county.
The movement has called for investigations into the role of local politicians and security agencies, arguing that the attacks looked more like an ambush than spontaneous unrest.
Police have arrested dozens of suspects found with weapons such as machetes, metal rods and clubs. An intelligence report later suggested that hundreds of youths were mobilised in advance. Wanga has denied any involvement, stating that she has never been linked to political violence and that the claims against her lack evidence. Kaluma has shifted blame toward the visiting leaders, accusing them of bringing outsiders who caused the trouble.
The events of August 16 have left Homa Bay residents shaken. Many businesses stayed closed the following day, and hospitals treated people with cuts, bruises and more serious injuries. Journalists covering the story were also attacked and had equipment stolen.
The names of Gladys Wanga and Peter Kaluma remain at the centre of public discussion about who bears responsibility for the bloodshed and destruction.
