Nairobi, 16 August 2026: Amnesty International Kenya strongly condemns the reported attacks on journalists, disruption of media broadcasts, destruction of property, unlawful road blockades, and acts of violence and intimidation associated with political activities in Homa Bay.
We are deeply alarmed by reports that hired mobs targeted for destruction and vandalism accommodation facilities suspected to be hosting Linda Mwananchi leaders or their supporters. We are equally concerned by allegations that the police and other security agencies failed to take timely and effective action to prevent the violence and protect affected persons.
These incidents represent a serious threat to the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution of Kenya, including freedom of expression, media freedom, access to information, freedom of movement, peaceful assembly, political participation, and the right to security of the person.
The State has a clear constitutional and legal obligation to protect all persons without discrimination and to ensure that every individual can exercise their rights freely, safely, and without fear of violence, intimidation, or reprisal. Any failure by public authorities to prevent or respond effectively to foreseeable violence undermines public confidence in the rule of law and weakens democratic institutions.
Amnesty International Kenya calls on the National Police Service, and all relevant authorities to take immediate measures to restore security, prevent further violence, and guarantee the safety of journalists, human rights defenders, political actors, businesses, and residents of Homa Bay.
We call for prompt, independent, impartial, and transparent investigations into all reported incidents, including attacks on journalists, destruction of property, disruption of media broadcasts, acts of intimidation, and restrictions on freedom of movement. All those responsible, whether private individuals, political actors, or public officials, must be held accountable in accordance with the law.
We further demand an independent review of the conduct and response of security agencies to establish whether there were failures to prevent violence, protect affected persons, or uphold constitutional rights. Accountability is essential to restoring public trust and ensuring that similar incidents do not recur.
The National Police Service must discharge its constitutional mandate professionally, impartially, and in full compliance with national and international human rights standards. Security agencies must facilitate, rather than obstruct, the enjoyment of fundamental rights and freedoms.
We also urge the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the National Police Service, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to investigate and, where appropriate, prosecute any individuals, including political leaders, alleged to have incited violence, hate, or attacks against political opponents, journalists, or members of the public.
As Kenya approaches the 2027 General Elections, the authorities must demonstrate an unwavering commitment to protecting constitutional freedoms, safeguarding media independence, and ensuring equal protection under the law. Impunity for violence and political intimidation has no place in a democratic society.
The authorities must act decisively to ensure accountabilities for all violations. They must uphold the rights and freedoms of every person in Homa Bay and across the country.
Signed, George Morara, Executive Director, Amnesty International Kenya
ENDS
Media Contact: Mathias T. Kinyoda Mobile: +254 786 725434 Email: [email protected]