Tension gripped Amalemba grounds in Kakamega County on Saturday morning after teargas canisters were lobbed at organisers preparing for the Linda Mwananchi rally.
Images circulating online showed plainclothes police officers dispersing individuals at the venue hours before the political gathering linked to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
The rally is expected to bring together leaders allied to Sifuna, including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Siaya Governor James Orengo.
The disruption comes amid heightened security concerns in the region. On Friday, Western Regional Police Commander Issa Muhamoud alleged that individuals travelling from Nairobi to attend the rally could be armed. He also stated that police had not received formal notification or permit requests for the Kakamega event.
A day earlier, a truck linked to the Linda Mwananchi convoy was stoned at Kona Mbaya trading centre while heading to Kakamega. Videos shared by Sifuna showed the vehicle being hit by a rock as supporters chanted slogans.
Despite the incidents, Sifuna maintained that the rally would proceed as planned. He said he had formally written to the Kakamega OCPD and notified Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen about the event, including sharing the notice via WhatsApp.
The developments unfold days after a rally in Kitengela turned tragic, resulting in the death of a 28-year-old man during unrest. The incident intensified debate over police handling of political gatherings and public safety.
As supporters continue to gather in Kakamega, leaders allied to the rally insist they will not be intimidated, while security agencies maintain they are acting to preserve law and order.
