Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Kaluma has called for the arrest and prosecution of Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna over their alleged involvement in the violence witnessed during the August 16 Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay.
Speaking at a press conference in Parliament, Kaluma urged security and investigative agencies to arrest the four leaders and probe what he described as their alleged role in organising and financing the violence.
He also called for investigations into the alleged financing of the Linda Mwananchi political caucus, claiming that the opposition faction received Ksh100 million.
“The Ksh100 million was delivered to Governor Orengo on the night of August 14, two days before the rally. This matter must be investigated by the relevant authorities,” Kaluma said.
The allegations come days after the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay turned violent, leaving two people dead and scores injured. Property was also damaged during clashes linked to the political gathering.
On the opposition side, Babu Owino claimed that members of their group were attacked by goons during the rally but managed to escape.
Babu also questioned the political tensions that emerged after the incident, noting that President William Ruto had visited Migori without anyone being harmed. He cautioned against what he described as attempts to pit Luos against Kikuyus for political purposes.
“Kenyans have continued voting for leaders who keep failing to bring the change they promised, while political divisions continue to dominate our politics,” Babu said.
ODM has since condemned the violence, maintaining that political gatherings should not be used as platforms for violence, intimidation or disruption of citizens' rights and livelihoods.
In a statement issued by Secretary General Catherine Omanyo, the party called for a prompt, impartial and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding the Homa Bay unrest.
ODM said anyone found responsible for criminal acts should face the law regardless of their political affiliation or status, while innocent citizens should be protected from arbitrary blame, harassment and collective punishment.
Meanwhile, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has summoned Kaluma to appear before the commission on August 19 as part of ongoing investigations into remarks he allegedly made during a political gathering in Homa Bay last week.
The commission warned that failure to appear could result in his arrest.
