Two journalists have sustained injuries while businesses in Homa Bay Town remained closed as tension escalated ahead of the planned Linda Mwananchi rally in the county on Sunday, August 16.

AFP journalists Fred Ooko and Brian Ongoro were assaulted by a group of armed youths while covering the tense situation in the town. The attackers reportedly made away with their press cards, driving licences, cameras and other personal belongings.

The journalists were allegedly dragged along the road and beaten with clubs before a boda boda rider intervened and came to their rescue.

The two later reported the incident at Homa Bay Police Station.

Meanwhile, Homa Bay Town has been largely deserted, with groups of youths blocking several roads and disrupting movement.

Business operations and public transport services have also been affected, forcing motorists to seek alternative routes as residents avoid the town centre.

Several churches also remained closed amid heightened security concerns ahead of the rally.

The Linda Mwananchi team, 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, is already in Suba South Constituency.

The leaders are expected to hold rallies in Nyandiwa and Sindo as part of their ongoing tour of the region.