Natembeya and Wamboka Escape Armed Youths During Homa Bay Rally Violence

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has shared a harrowing account of how he and Bumula MP Jack Wamboka narrowly escaped an attack by youths armed with machetes and clubs during political unrest in Homa Bay County.

The incident unfolded after the Linda Mwananchi tour rally, when their convoy came under assault as they tried to leave the area. Natembeya explained that Siaya Governor James Orengo, who was traveling ahead due to his regional ties, encountered barricades that blocked the road in Ndhiwa.

"In Homa Bay Town, the youth were noisy but posed no threat, so we proceeded," Natembeya said. However, the convoy faced escalating dangers upon reaching Ndhiwa, where the road was obstructed by stones, poles, and kiosks. Vehicles were pelted with stones, shattering windows, and Orengo’s team was forced to turn back.

During the chaos, Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga sustained an injury after being hit on the hand. Natembeya and Wamboka remained behind in Homa Bay, and their vehicle suffered a flat tyre. Despite this, they kept moving until they reached a centre where they sought shelter inside a compound believed to be an Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) facility and feeding centre.

"Shortly after, a group of youths arrived on motorcycles armed with machetes and clubs," Natembeya recounted. Faced with imminent danger, the two leaders and their security detail opted not to engage with firearms as instructed by Natembeya. Instead, they climbed over the fence to escape the compound and eventually secured a taxi that took them to safety in Kisumu.

Natembeya appealed to young people opposed to the Linda Mwananchi movement to refrain from violence and either stay home or peacefully attend meetings to understand the agenda.

He also pledged that the Linda Mwananchi team would return to Homa Bay, emphasizing that retreating would embolden those using violence to disrupt political activities.