Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has come under criticism from some Kenyans after visiting the family of Noureen Nalwanga, popularly known as NyaUganda, who died during the violence that disrupted the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay on Sunday.
Wanga visited Nalwanga’s family at their home in Mbuni Estate, where she conveyed her condolences and condemned political violence, provocation and lawlessness.
The governor said Nalwanga’s death was tragic and called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the violence. She also urged political leaders and their supporters to exercise tolerance and avoid rhetoric that could inflame tensions.
“Political competition must never supersede our shared humanity, dignity and respect for human life,” Wanga said.
However, her statement triggered a wave of criticism from some Kenyans online, with critics questioning the governor’s condemnation of violence in light of accusations levelled against her and other Homa Bay leaders following Sunday’s chaos.
The backlash intensified after Linda Mwananchi leaders publicly called for Wanga and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma to be investigated and prosecuted over their alleged role in the events surrounding the rally. The movement accused the two leaders of making inflammatory statements and demanded that they account for their actions or alleged failure to prevent the violence.
Some Kenyans therefore interpreted Wanga’s visit to Nalwanga’s family as an attempt to distance herself from the political fallout surrounding the incident, while others questioned why she was calling for investigations after being named among those facing accusations.
The governor, however, has denied allegations that she sponsored goons involved in the violence.
Wanga maintained that she has opposed political violence for nearly two decades, dating back to her days as a student leader. She also defended Homa Bay’s reputation as an ODM stronghold, arguing that the region should protect the democratic freedoms associated with the party’s historical struggle.
The violence has since triggered demands for investigations into the conduct of political actors and security agencies. Linda Mwananchi has alleged that its convoy encountered roadblocks and organised groups of attackers, while authorities have launched investigations into the incidents.
The movement has further demanded accountability from leaders and security officials over the violence, which left people dead and scores injured.
As the political blame game continues, Wanga has urged the National Police Service to independently and impartially establish what happened and take legal action against anyone found culpable, regardless of political affiliation.
She said justice should be pursued for Nalwanga’s family, those injured and other victims of the Homa Bay violence.
The governor’s visit has consequently placed her at the centre of a wider political debate over accountability, with supporters and critics sharply divided over her response to the deadly unrest.