Nairobi: The group’s leaders led by county coordinator Samuel Nyauke have called on opposing camps to avoid causing chaos during their upcoming rally on August 16th.
According to Kenya News Agency, this appeal comes after last month’s disruption of Siaya Governor James Orengo’s meetings in Homa Bay town, which resulted in injuries to two men. The incident was sparked by a clash between Linda Mwananchi supporters and those backing President Ruto’s re-election at Junction Kodoyo in Homa Bay town.
On Tuesday, Nyauke, accompanied by movement officials, secured a permit from Homa Bay Police Station for the rally. Speaking to the media shortly afterward, Nyauke urged their opponents allied with Dr. Oburu Oginga to maintain peace during the event, emphasizing the importance of conducting politics maturely and without physical confrontation.
Nyauke appealed to ODM members supporting President Ruto’s re-election to refrain from inciting violence during the rally. He assured that Linda Mwananchi supporters would also maintain peace, underscoring that politics should focus on policy discussions rather than conflict. “You cannot attack people in order to vote for you to become a leader. Politics is about selling policies to persuade voters,” Nyauke stated.
Clifford Obiero, a candidate for the Rangwe Parliamentary seat, echoed Nyauke’s sentiments, stressing the importance of maintaining peace in accordance with the law. “As Linda Mwananchi, we will maintain peace as required by the law. But let nobody take advantage of our calmness to provoke us,” Obiero warned.
The rally is expected to feature prominent Linda Mwananchi leaders, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
