A section of Kenya’s opposition held a series of rallies in Homa Bay County on Sunday, drawing large crowds despite reported attempts to disrupt the events.
The movement, known as “Linda Mwananchi,” meaning “Safeguarding the People,” was led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and has emerged as one of the opposition groupings pushing for political change ahead of next year’s general elections.
Reports said groups of youths threw stones and barricaded roads in an attempt to prevent opposition leaders from reaching rally venues. Local journalists, including a Citizen TV crew member and an AFP freelancer, were also reportedly attacked and had equipment stolen.
Local media reported allegations that some youths were offered up to 4,000 Kenyan shillings to disrupt the rallies, although the claim has not been independently verified.
Speaking at the rally, Nairobi MP Babu Owino told supporters that attempts to block the gathering would not overcome public support for the opposition.
President William Ruto is facing increasing pressure from opposition politicians over economic conditions, corruption allegations and the government’s handling of anti-government protests.
Sifuna also criticised the government’s security record, saying he could not support a government that he accused of killing protesters.
