Kalonzo Demands Special Inquiry into Homa Bay Rally Violence, Claims 61 Killed

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has demanded an independent special inquiry into the violence that disrupted the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay County, claiming that the death toll from the incident has risen to 61.

Speaking during a press conference in Homa Bay on Friday, November 6, 2026, Kalonzo said an independent investigation was necessary to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths and identify those responsible.

He said the number of people killed had initially been reported as six but had since increased to 61, describing the incident as a massacre and calling for accountability.

“The number has since risen to 61. This was a massacre, and as the United Alternative Government, we are calling for a special inquiry to establish exactly what happened and who was responsible for these killings,” Kalonzo said.

The Wiper leader warned against the continued use of violence in political activities, arguing that disagreements over political positions should not result in the loss of innocent lives.

“We cannot allow this situation to continue. We do not want Homa Bay to become a killing field for innocent people. Homa Bay is part of Kenya and an important part of this country,” he added.

Kalonzo Demands Accountability over Linda Mwananchi Rally Chaos

The violence referenced by Kalonzo occurred on Sunday, August 16, 2026, when the Linda Mwananchi movement, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo, toured parts of Homa Bay County.

The leaders had earlier held political engagements at Nyandiwa and Sindo trading centres in Suba South Constituency before proceeding towards Homa Bay Town for a major rally.

However, their journey was disrupted by groups of armed youths who reportedly barricaded roads and attacked members of the convoy as it approached the town.

The clashes left several people injured, with reports indicating that at least 46 people were taken to Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital for treatment.

Several vehicles were torched, including those belonging to political leaders and MediaMax Network Limited. Journalists covering the events were also attacked, with some sustaining injuries and losing their equipment.

The violence reportedly spread to the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Lake Victoria Field headquarters, where buildings and vehicles were damaged. Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital was also attacked, with reports indicating that some assailants were searching for injured rally participants.

The incident triggered widespread condemnation and renewed concerns about political intolerance, freedom of assembly and the safety of journalists covering political events.

In the aftermath, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations pursued suspects linked to the violence. Police issued a wanted notice for 25 people over the Homa Bay rally chaos.

Kalonzo’s latest demand for a special inquiry now places renewed focus on the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether those responsible will be held accountable.

Kalonzo Says Luo Nyanza Supports ‘Wantam’ Politics

Beyond demanding an investigation, Kalonzo dismissed suggestions that the Luo Nyanza region was firmly behind President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

He argued that the turnout witnessed during the previous day’s political engagements demonstrated growing support for the opposition’s one-term campaign against the President.

“People are not just chanting ‘one term’. They are saying they want their country back. They want a country where people are not abducted at will by those in authority. They want a country governed by the rule of law and the Constitution of 2010, where the Bill of Rights is respected and felt in their everyday lives,” he said.

Kalonzo also accused the government of misappropriating public resources, arguing that corruption was undermining the country’s development and the future of ordinary Kenyans.

“They are fed up with a government that is stealing from them. When you steal from us, you are also stealing our future,” he added.

The former Vice President further paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, recalling that he had worked closely with him for 15 years.

He urged residents of South Nyanza to preserve the region’s historical contribution to Kenya’s democratic struggle, also recognising the roles played by former Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and the late Tom Mboya in the country’s political development.

Kalonzo’s Migori Attack Raises Fresh Political Violence Concerns

Kalonzo’s demand for an inquiry comes a day after he and other opposition leaders were reportedly attacked during a political tour in Migori County.

The incident occurred during his Ukombozi Alliance engagements, when his convoy was pelted with stones by about 10 youths, damaging several vehicles, including that of former Attorney-General Justin Muturi.

Police also lobbed tear gas to disperse crowds, prompting Kalonzo to accuse security agencies of using excessive force.

The incident attracted condemnation from opposition politicians, with Embakasi East MP Babu Owino warning against political intolerance and attacks on opposition leaders.

The two incidents have renewed questions about the security of opposition political activities as parties and leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Kalonzo’s call for a special inquiry is likely to intensify pressure on security agencies and investigative authorities to clarify what happened in Homa Bay, establish the verified number of fatalities and ensure accountability for the violence.

However, his claim that 61 people died remains a figure attributed to him and requires independent verification by relevant authorities.