ODM Sifuna faction holds Kisumu rally despite early disruptions
The Orange Democratic Movement faction aligned to Edwin Sifuna pushed ahead with a planned rally in Kisumu despite early attempts to disrupt the engagements by rival groups.
The team, linked to the Nairobi senator and James Orengo, began the day with a church service in Nyalenda before addressing supporters at KaOwuor grounds.
Leaders moved through various parts of the city in a convoy of supporters, drawing crowds of residents who lined the streets as security patrols monitored the situation.
Early disruptions and heavy security presence
Earlier in the day, boda boda riders opposed to the meeting reportedly moved around parts of the city warning residents against attending the events. At the same time, a counter group mobilised residents to welcome the Linda Mwananchi team on their first visit to Kisumu since their fallout with the mainstream ODM leadership.
Police later lobbed teargas at Kachok and Ring Road Nyalenda to prevent a possible confrontation between rival groups. The show of force briefly slowed business activity in some areas as tensions rose.
Despite the situation, the leaders proceeded to Triumphant Christian Church, where they were received by hundreds of supporters after travelling from Ciala Resort through the city's central business district.
Leaders address supporters
While addressing residents in Kondele, Sifuna thanked Kisumu residents for their support and pledged commitment to their political agenda.
During the church service, Babu Owino called for calm and urged rival groups to avoid violence.
Babu alleged that some youths had been paid between Sh200 and Sh1,000 to skip the events and urged leaders to stop sponsoring violence among young people.
Claims of political intolerance
Speaking at the event, Orengo insisted that no amount of mobilisation would stop the rally, accusing unnamed leaders of sponsoring disruptions. He said the group would continue engaging residents despite intimidation.
Former ODM deputy party leader Godfrey Osotsi also spoke emotionally, saying it took faith for him to return to Kisumu after surviving an attack weeks earlier.
Wider political activities continue
The Kisumu rally took place as another ODM faction led by Oburu Oginga held a youth convention in Malindi. The meeting was attended by leaders including Gladys Wanga, Abdulswamad Nassir and Simba Arati, focusing on youth engagement within the party.
Meanwhile, allies of William Ruto and Kithure Kindiki held separate political activities in Tharaka Nithi.
The Kisumu events unfolded against the backdrop of growing political tension, highlighting the evolving political landscape ahead of future elections.
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