Siaya Governor James Orengo has declared his intention to vie for the presidency in 2027, calling for sober and mature politics, particularly among leaders and communities in the Nyanza region.

Orengo made the declaration in Oyugis, Homa Bay County, where he was accompanied by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and other leaders for the burial of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer Steven Onyango.

The visit by the Linda Mwananchi brigade came barely three weeks after their rally in Homa Bay Town was marred by violence and chaos.

Addressing mourners, Orengo urged political leaders to embrace tolerance and issue-based politics, saying competition for leadership should not divide communities.

Babu Owino also condemned political incitement, describing the violence witnessed during the previous Homa Bay rally as unfortunate. He said young people should never again be incited to turn against one another because of political differences.

Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang defended the Linda Mwananchi movement, insisting that its leaders have a right to express their political beliefs and views without intimidation or violence. He maintained that the attack on their earlier rally was unacceptable and should not be repeated.