One Injured After Tear Gas Thrown at Sifuna’s Kakamega Rally

Linda Mwanainchi rally at Kakamega

One person was seriously injured after a tear gas canister was hurled near the dais during the Linda Wananchi rally organised by embattled ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna in Kakamega town on Saturday.

Youths at the venue quickly responded, breaking into a nearby compound from where the canister was believed to have been thrown in an effort to contain the situation.

The suspect was escorted to the podium and later taken for medical attention following the intervention of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who urged calm and called on supporters not to harm him.

Another individual, suspected of attempting to disrupt the rally, was found carrying a handcuff and similarly taken to the podium.

Earlier, youths had dispersed individuals near the dais and reportedly damaged a vehicle believed to have been used by those attempting to interfere with the meeting. The group had organised themselves to inspect vehicles accessing the venue to prevent disruptions.

The rally attracted several ODM leaders, including deputy party leader Godfrey Osotsi, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, and Members of Parliament Caleb Amisi, Caroli Omondi, Emmanuel Oundo, Kakasinga Majimbo, Joshua Kivilu, Patrick Makau, Obadia Barongo, and Anthony Kibagendi.

Tensions had been building earlier in Kakamega town, with groups of youths and bodaboda riders moving through the streets in trucks, tuk-tuks and motorcycles, carrying placards bearing the word “Tutam.”

Some traders temporarily shut down their businesses amid fears of potential clashes between rival groups.

Attempts were also made to block the Sifuna-led team from entering the town by lighting fires along the Kakamega–Kisumu–Webuye highway, though the leaders eventually made their way to the rally venue.

Siaya Governor James Orengo said the rally would chart the way forward for the Linda Wananchi movement.

“We’re bringing change to Kenya, and Kenyans should know they wield sovereign power,” Orengo said.

Babu Owino added that the movement seeks to address pressing national challenges, urging unity within the party ranks.

He further noted that mass action could be considered if President William Ruto fails to implement the ten-point agenda agreement with the late Raila Odinga.