The Linda Mwananchi movement has called for the swift arrest and prosecution of Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, accusing them of inciting violence during the movement's recent visit to the county.
During a press briefing on Monday, August 17, 2026, movement officials, including Pauline Njoroge who read the statement, were joined by Siaya Governor James Orengo and former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo. They alleged that Wanga and Kaluma made inflammatory remarks that encouraged attacks on Linda Mwananchi members.
Legal Grounds for Arrest Demands
The movement cited several laws under which the two leaders should be investigated, including the Election Offences Act, the Prevention of Organised Crimes Act, and the National Cohesion and Integration Act. They urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to consider disqualifying Wanga and Kaluma from future political contests if found guilty of violating electoral codes.
“We demand that the IEBC disqualify Gladys Wanga and Peter Kaluma from eligibility to vie for political office on account of their violations,” Njoroge stated.
Threat of Citizen Arrest and Legal Support
Linda Mwananchi warned that if law enforcement agencies fail to act, citizens are prepared to enforce arrests. The movement also pledged legal assistance to prosecutors, offering to help draft charge sheets should the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) face challenges in pursuing the case.
Violence During County Tour
The call for arrests follows violent incidents on Sunday during the movement's tour of Homa Bay. Linda Mwananchi accused security personnel of inadequate protection and alleged some police officers were complicit in attacks against their convoy. The group described the violence as an ambush, citing armed individuals firing from bushes along their route.
The movement has also demanded investigations into the conduct of security agencies, including the National Police Service and the National Intelligence Service, over their handling of the events.
