Former Bungoma County Governor Wycliffe Wangamati has detailed an attack on the Linda Mwananchi convoy as the political movement faced disruptions while entering Homa Bay town on Sunday.
Wangamati, who was part of the convoy accompanying Linda Mwananchi leaders, said a section of the team was blocked by groups he described as goons as they approached Homa Bay town.
In a statement issued after the incident, Wangamati said some vehicles within the convoy were vandalised before police officers intervened and helped secure the group.
“Blocked by goons as we were entering Homa Bay town… section of the convoy vandalized but we have been rescued by police,” Wangamati said.
The former governor said despite the confrontation, members of the convoy were safe after security officers intervened.
“It's bad guys but we are safe,” he added, while condemning the incident as an indication of what he termed retrogressive political practices.
Wangamati described the events as “very retrogressive and primitive politics”, expressing concern over the disruption of the political mobilisation.
His remarks came amid heightened tension in Homa Bay, where the Linda Mwananchi caravan encountered a series of disruptions as it moved through parts of the county.
Several roads were reportedly blocked using stones and other objects, while groups of youths were accused of confronting members and supporters of the political movement.
Vehicles associated with the caravan were also reportedly targeted during the disturbances.
The incidents reportedly affected planned engagements in different parts of Homa Bay, with some members of the convoy facing difficulties accessing venues.
Police were deployed to several areas to contain the situation and facilitate the movement of the political team. Authorities also reported arrests and the recovery of crude weapons in operations linked to efforts to prevent further disruptions.
The violence has since triggered condemnation from political leaders and civil society organisations, with calls for security agencies to investigate the incidents and ensure that political actors can conduct lawful activities without intimidation.
The events have also renewed debate over political tolerance as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election, with competing political formations increasingly taking their campaigns and mobilisation activities to different parts of the country.
Wangamati, however, maintained that the confrontation would not stop the movement.