HOMA BAY, Kenya — Two Kisumu-based Agence France-Presse (AFP) journalists were assaulted and several businesses and transport services disrupted in Homa Bay on Sunday, August 16, 2026, as tensions escalated during the Linda Mwananchi rally in the region.
AFP journalists Fred Ooko and Brian Ongoro were attacked by a group of men armed with crude weapons while covering events in Homa Bay town.
The journalists were reportedly dragged along the road and beaten with clubs before a boda boda rider intervened and helped them.
During the assault, the attackers allegedly seized their press cards, driving licences, cameras and other personal belongings.
Ooko and Ongoro subsequently reported the incident at Homa Bay Police Station.
The assault occurred amid heightened tension in Homa Bay, where several roads leading into the town were reportedly blocked by groups of people.
The disruptions brought parts of the town to a standstill, with businesses and transport services affected and motorists forced to use alternative routes.
Several churches also remained closed as the security situation deteriorated.
The disruption coincided with the Linda Mwananchi rally, which brought together a group of opposition-aligned leaders for political activities in the region.
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The campaign was led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, among other leaders.
The leaders held rallies in Nyandiwa and Sindo in Suba South as part of their political mobilisation.
The violence and disruption in Homa Bay have raised fresh concerns about the safety of journalists covering political events and the ability of authorities to maintain public order during politically charged gatherings.
The circumstances surrounding the assault on Ooko and Ongoro, including the identity of those responsible and whether the attack was connected to the rally, remain subject to police investigation.
