Homa Bay County was on edge Sunday as police officers escorted the Linda Mwananchi motorcade through the lakeside town amid heightened political tension ahead of the movement’s planned rallies.
Armed officers lined key roads and intersections as the convoy moved from one stop to another, with traffic briefly diverted in parts of Homa Bay Town.
The heavy presence followed days of unrest, including protests over the arrest of six people linked to an alleged attack on members of the rally’s planning team.
Businesses along the route remained open, but traders watched closely as bonfires that had earlier disrupted transport were replaced by patrol vehicles and roadblocks.
Police commanders said the deployment was meant to ensure safety for both motorists and participants.
Linda Mwananchi organisers said the tour is part of a nationwide push to engage communities ahead of 2027.
Speaking after the procession, coordinator Samuel Nyauke thanked officers for maintaining order and urged supporters to remain peaceful.
“All we want is space to speak to the people. We pay taxes and we deserve protection,” Nyauke said.
Governor Gladys Wanga had earlier appealed for calm, while local leaders differed on the timing of the rallies.
Despite the tension, no major incidents were reported during Sunday’s movement.The motorcade is expected to continue engagements in neighboring constituencies as the movement consolidates support in Nyanza ahead of the main public rally.
