Roads in Homa Bay Town were blocked early Sunday, August 16, 2026, with bonfires lit, as tensions rose ahead of the planned Linda Mwananchi rally.

• Key routes into and out of Nyandiwa, the rally venue, were blocked with large stones, rendering some sections impassable.
• The disruptions occurred despite government assurances of adequate security for the rally, highlighting concerns over attempts to prevent peaceful assembly.
• Allegations suggest politically sponsored groups and youths were mobilized to disrupt the gathering and intimidate supporters.

Tensions ran high in Homa Bay ahead of the Linda Mwananchi rally, marked by an attack on a journalist and clashes between youth and police.

• An AFP correspondent, Fred Ooko, was attacked and robbed of his camera and driving licence in Homa Bay Town.
• Running battles were reported in Homa Bay Town as youth attempted to block attendees.
• Police were deployed with a heavy presence, stopping and searching vehicles, and later fired tear gas at individuals pelting stones at the Linda Mwananchi convoy.
• The convoy of Siaya Governor James Orengo was also attacked by "goons" in Nyandiwa.

The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a stern warning to politicians and organizers against inciting violence ahead of the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay this Sunday. The NPS also cautioned its own officers to maintain professionalism and impartiality.

• NPS warns that offenders will face the "full force of the law."
• Key organizations involved include the NPS and the Linda Mwananchi brigade, with a rally planned in the ODM stronghold.
• Notable details include armed goons blocking roads and the arrest of 15 suspects with crude weapons.