Oburu Urged to Convene Nyanza Leaders’ Meeting Over Rising Political Violence

Oburu Urged to Convene Nyanza Leaders’ Meeting Over Rising Political Violence

The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Bondo Diocese Bishop David Kodia has urged Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Odinga to convene an urgent meeting of Nyanza leaders to address rising political violence in the region.

Kodia said political leaders must take immediate action to contain growing tensions and prevent violence from becoming entrenched in the region ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking to the media on Sunday, August 30, the bishop warned that continued political unrest could discourage residents from participating freely in elections and other democratic activities.

He singled out Oburu, who leads ODM, and urged him to bring together Members of Parliament and other political leaders from Nyanza to find a peaceful solution to their differences.

“When we started seeing this thing much earlier and called for sobriety, they took us for granted. Most of them said they were elected. Now look at the shame they have brought us. It is something which must stop.”

Kodia expressed concern over what he described as growing political intolerance and the use of organised groups to disrupt political gatherings.

The bishop said leaders should take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters and discourage confrontations at political events.

“They are the ones who planted this goonism. All of them, they are marshalling a very big following of goons who come and destroy and maim and leave a trail of destruction.”

He directly challenged Oburu to use his political influence to bring Nyanza leaders together and push for an end to the violence.

“I am calling on Oburu to call all MPs and tell them to reduce the violence. You must now show us that you are leader. Lead these people and remove them from that mud of violence and let them talk to sort out their differences.”

Violence Raises Concern in Nyanza

Kodia’s call comes against the backdrop of several violent incidents reported in Nyanza in recent weeks.

Political gatherings linked to the Linda Mwananchi movement have been affected by confrontations in counties including Homa Bay, Kisumu and Migori, with the incidents raising concern among religious leaders, security agencies and residents.

At least four people have reportedly died in violence associated with recent political activities, while several others have sustained injuries. Property worth millions of shillings has also reportedly been destroyed.

The situation escalated further in Migori County, where Siaya Governor James Orengo claimed that his convoy came under attack on Saturday.

Orengo said his official vehicle was allegedly sprayed with bullets before being set on fire. The incident added to growing fears over the safety of political leaders and supporters attending rallies in the region.

Leaders Under Pressure to Act

Kodia warned that continued violence could have serious consequences beyond individual political rallies.

He said residents could become reluctant to attend political meetings or participate in elections if they fear being attacked because of their political affiliations.

The bishop therefore called for dialogue and political restraint, arguing that disagreements should be resolved through democratic and peaceful processes.

His remarks add to growing calls for political leaders in Nyanza to take responsibility for maintaining peace as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The National Police Service and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) have also issued warnings against political violence and intimidation.

The bishop’s appeal places renewed focus on Oburu and other Nyanza leaders to engage in dialogue and prevent political differences from escalating into violence.

With the 2027 elections approaching, religious leaders and other stakeholders are increasingly urging politicians to prioritise peaceful competition and protect residents’ right to participate freely in democratic processes.

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Oburu Urged to Convene Nyanza Leaders’ Meeting Over Rising Political Violence