Siaya Governor James Orengo has raised concerns over alleged plans to disrupt a political meeting scheduled for Homa Bay on Sunday, August 16.
Speaking on Wednesday, August 12, Orengo claimed he had received intelligence indicating that meetings were being held to coordinate disruptions, including the alleged mobilisation of goons and distribution of weapons.
He alleged that a meeting held after the Naivasha UDA-ODM meeting at Governors’ Park involved the distribution of traditional weapons, including rungus, arrows and pangas.
Linda Mwananchi rally. Photo: Courtesy.
He further claimed that a governor had procured the weapons to facilitate attacks against people travelling to Homa Bay.
Orengo also alleged that another meeting had taken place at the residence of Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, where he claimed a group of goons had gathered.
According to the Siaya governor, plans were also underway to restrict traders from accessing Homa Bay town during the political gathering.
He claimed market women were being encouraged to take their goods to Kabunde Airstrip instead of entering the town.
He further alleged that a registration exercise was being planned at the airstrip as part of an attempt to prevent aircraft carrying his supporters from landing there.
Despite the alleged plans, Orengo maintained that he and his supporters would travel to Homa Bay for the Sunday meeting.
The county boss also claimed that some of his supporters could be arrested ahead of the gathering, saying his camp was prepared for such eventualities.
Orengo accused Homa Bay leaders of using political mobilisation along partisan lines in a manner that could fuel conflict.
He warned that organising people around political loyalties could create conditions for violence and ethnic conflict.
The Siaya governor vowed to attend the Homa Bay meeting despite what he described as threats and attempts to prevent his presence.
