Property of unknown value was destroyed during the chaotic Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay on Sunday, August 17, with the extent of the damage becoming clear after the political team had left the town.

Up to six vehicles were set ablaze after their drivers reportedly lost control and were unable to move amid the chaos. Armed youths then torched the vehicles, while the violence also spilled into a nearby church.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church Lake Victoria Field headquarters at Lala, along the Homa Bay-Mbita Road, was attacked, with a vehicle set on fire at the gate as its driver attempted to flee to safety.

Lake Victoria Field President Pastor Samson Okwach said the church was hosting evangelists at the time of the incident. He alleged that materials belonging to the clerics were taken and used to ignite the vehicle.

Residents warned that such violence could scare away investors, while calling for political leaders to find a lasting solution to the rivalry between opposing factions.

George Ongoro faulted the Linda Mwananchi team for arriving in Homa Bay Town at night, arguing that the destruction could have been avoided had the team arrived earlier.

Meanwhile, Bonface Oneya called for a truce between Linda Mwananchi supporters and those backing President William Ruto. He urged Ida Odinga to intervene and help reconcile the two sides.

At Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital, 46 people were treated following the violence before being referred to private facilities due to the ongoing nurses’ strike. Those treated included a police officer who sustained a head injury and four people with gunshot wounds to their lower limbs.

Hospital Chief Executive Officer Vincent Oduor said seven patients were in critical condition, with one referred to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kisumu.

One woman died after she was reportedly struck by a speeding vehicle. Oduor said she was rushed to hospital and died shortly after being examined by a doctor.