Leaders affiliated with the Linda Wananchi faction have condemned what they describe as “state-sponsored violence” following the tragic death of a 28-year-old man, Vincent Ayomo, during a political rally in Kitengela on Sunday.
In a press statement released Monday, the faction said Ayomo, a young garage worker, was killed while peacefully participating in the rally.
They accused police and hired state operatives of using excessive force, resulting not only in Ayomo’s death but also injuries to several others and destruction of the public address system set up for the event.
“We express our deepest condolences and sympathies to the family and friends of Vincent Ayomo. He tragically lost his life in the fight for a better Kenya at the hands of those who are duty bound to protect him,” the statement read.
The leaders stressed that Ayomo “committed no crime and provoked nobody,” questioning why law enforcement resorted to lethal force.
The statement also directly implicated President William Ruto and CS Kipchumba Murkomen, holding them personally responsible for the violent crackdown.
The faction accused the administration of undermining democratic freedoms and attempting to intimidate citizens exercising their constitutional rights.
Beyond the immediate violence, the Linda Wananchi leaders highlighted the worsening famine situation affecting about four million Kenyans.
They criticized the government for failing to act on early warnings, claiming that overstated food production figures have masked the severity of the crisis.
The faction demanded that the government declare a national disaster and provide emergency food assistance, particularly for learners who have been forced to abandon school due to hunger.
“Our appeal to all peaceful, law-abiding Kenyans is to remain engaged in the pursuit of a better Kenya. Do not be intimidated. Continue to exercise your political rights,” the statement urged.
Signatories of the statement included prominent leaders such as James Orengo, Godfrey Osostsi, Edwin Sifuna, Babu Owino, and other members of Parliament and civil society advocates aligned with the Linda Wananchi faction.