Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has mourned a woman who died after she was reportedly run over by a campaign vehicle during the Linda Mwananchi tour in Homa Bay on Sunday evening.
Mama Noureen Nalwanga, popularly known as NyaUganda, died after being overrun by a vehicle during the political gathering, an incident that has renewed concerns over political violence and rising tensions surrounding political activities in the county.
Governor Wanga visited Nalwanga’s home in Mbuni Estate, where she stood with the bereaved family and conveyed her condolences.
“My heartfelt condolences go to her family, friends and loved ones,” Ms Wanga said.
The governor condemned the violence and provocations witnessed during Sunday’s events, saying they had resulted in avoidable deaths, injuries and destruction of property.
“Political violence, provocation and lawlessness have absolutely no place in our society,” she said, adding that she had maintained that position consistently for nearly two decades, dating back to her days as a student leader.
Ms Wanga said Homa Bay’s reputation as an ODM stronghold should not be used to justify violence or political intolerance.
She noted that the Orange Democratic Movement had played a significant role in the struggle for Kenya’s expanded democratic space, including the constitutional freedoms of speech, association and peaceful assembly.
“Given the immense sacrifices made by our people and the party to secure these fundamental freedoms, we cannot afford to stand by and watch them eroded or compromised in Homa Bay or anywhere else in our country,” she said.
The governor urged political leaders, their supporters and other political actors to exercise restraint and avoid rhetoric that could inflame tensions or provoke violence.
She said political competition should never take precedence over human life and dignity.
“Political competition must never supersede our shared humanity, dignity and respect for human life,” she said.
Ms Wanga also called on the National Police Service to conduct an independent, impartial and thorough investigation into Sunday’s incidents and take legal action against anyone found culpable, regardless of their political affiliation.
She said justice must be pursued for Nalwanga’s family and other victims of the violence.
“We owe it to Mama Noureen’s family and other families who lost their loved ones, to those who were injured, to the people of Homa Bay and to our country to ensure that justice is served and the rule of law upheld,” the governor said.
The incident comes amid heightened political activity in Homa Bay, where rival political groups are increasingly mobilising supporters ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The growing political mobilisation has raised fears that confrontations could escalate unless leaders take measures to rein in their supporters and promote peaceful political competition.
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