A bus parked near the police station in Homa Bay town following political tension in Homa Bay County/Robert Omollo
Transport was paralysed in most towns and markets in Homa Bay County after youths barricaded various roads ahead of the Linda Mwananchi movement rally.
It was difficult to move into and out of the towns as tension gripped Homa Bay. The roads were blocked by youths reportedly allied to the ODM party.
Passengers travelling from Nairobi to various parts of Homa Bay bore the brunt of the disruption.
Those travelling to Mbita were stranded in Homa Bay town after their bus was unable to proceed with the journey.
Homa Bay police station, where two youths arrested are being detained./Robert Omollo
At 4:30pm, the passengers were still stranded in the bus. They expressed concerns over the difficulties they were experiencing as a result of the delay.
A woman, Emily Aloo, who was travelling to Kasgunga village in Mbita to bury her mother-in-law, expressed concern that the situation would prevent her from attending the burial in time.
“We left Nairobi yesterday at 9pm, but I am still in Homa Bay town. I have not eaten anything since I left Nairobi, and hunger is real here,” Aloo said.
Annalisa Mukena, a passenger, urged the government to ensure the security of Kenyans during political events.
Mukena, who was travelling to Mbita town from Nairobi, said the delay had caused her significant losses.
“Politics shouldn’t interfere with development activities. The government should accord Kenyans security,” Mukena said.
Business operations were paralysed in Homa Bay town throughout Sunday. Shops and the open-air market remained closed throughout the day following the heightened tension.
Youths carrying crude weapons could be seen riding motorcycles on the roads while shouting slogans.
“We have not done any business in this town. My children will go hungry today,” said Eunice Auma, a trader.
Police have arrested two youths and seized pangas, which police said were allegedly intended for use in criminal activities.
