In Homa Bay County, Kenya’s opposition organized a series of rallies on Sunday, attracting large crowds despite reported efforts to disrupt the events.
The “Linda Mwananchi” movement, which translates to “Safeguarding the People,” is spearheaded by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. This group has become a significant voice in advocating for political reform as the country approaches its general elections next year.
According to reports, groups of youths attempted to thwart the rallies by throwing stones and setting up roadblocks to prevent opposition leaders from reaching the venues. Local journalists, including a member of Citizen TV and a freelancer from AFP, were also reportedly attacked, with their equipment being stolen.
Media outlets alleged that some young people were offered up to 4,000 Kenyan shillings to disrupt the rallies, though these claims have yet to be independently confirmed.
During the rally, Nairobi MP Babu Owino addressed the crowd, asserting that efforts to hinder the gathering would not dampen public support for the opposition.
President William Ruto is under mounting pressure from opposition figures over issues such as the state of the economy, corruption allegations, and how the government has managed anti-government protests.
Sifuna further criticized the government’s security policies, stating he could not endorse an administration that he accused of harming protesters.
