Former Alego Usonga Member of Parliament (MP) Sammy Weya has raised concerns over rising political intolerance in Luo Nyanza, following recent incidents of violence and intimidation reported in Homa Bay County.
In a statement calling for responsible leadership, Weya condemned the deployent of hired goons, the disruption of transport on land and water, and the destruction of local businesses, warning that political hostility poses a threat to the region’s stability.
”The scenes of violence, intimidation, and the reported hiring of goons in Homa Bay are deeply disturbing and should concern every responsible leader and citizen of Luo Nyanza,” Weya said. “This is not strength; it is a dangerous manifestation of political intolerance and a step backward for our community.”
The former lawmaker contrasted the current political climate with the era of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, noting that past leadership prioritized dialogue over violence despite internal differences. He cautioned that failure to manage political rivalry through democratic means could weaken Nyanza’s bargaining power nationally.
Weya appealed directly to regional leadership specifically Governors Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu), James Orengo (Siaya), Ochilo Ayacko (Migori), and Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay), alongside Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga to convene urgently and chart a unified path forward.
”We may have different political ambitions, parties, and opinions, but we share one community and one future,” Weya added. “Luo Nyanza needs dialogue, unity, and strategic leadership not goons, violence, and political intolerance. Let us disagree politically, but let us never become enemies of one another.”
Various key roads leading to Homa Bay Town were barricaded by goons on Sunday, August 16, presumably to block the entry of the Linda Mwananchi convoy into Homa Bay County.
The violence that erupted as rival youths battled resulted in destruction of property and injuries to scores of people.
Reports indicate that at least six vehicles were burnt to ashes following the violent confrontations.
