KISUMU – Political tension is rising in Kisumu County after a section of youth leaders issued a stern warning to Governor Gladys Wanga and Senior Counsel Prof Tom Ojienda over alleged attempts to interfere with the upcoming “Linda Mwananchi” tour scheduled for this weekend.
The youth, speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, accused unnamed political actors of trying to disrupt what they described as a grassroots civic engagement initiative meant to address citizen concerns, promote accountability, and strengthen public participation in governance.
They claimed intelligence reports suggested that there were plans to frustrate the smooth running of the tour through administrative and political pressure. However, they did not provide evidence to support the allegations.
“We are aware of schemes being cooked behind closed doors to derail the Linda Mwananchi tour in Kisumu. We want to send a clear warning to Governor Wanga and Prof Tom Ojienda: do not interfere with this people-driven initiative,” one youth leader stated.
The “Linda Mwananchi” tour, which has been gaining traction in parts of Western Kenya, is expected to attract political leaders, civil society groups, and residents who will engage in discussions on governance, service delivery, and economic empowerment.
Governor Gladys Wanga, who leads Kisumu County, has not yet publicly responded to the allegations. Her office has in the past emphasized collaboration with all stakeholders in ensuring development programs are implemented without political interference.
Prof Tom Ojienda SC, a prominent legal scholar and political figure in the region, has also not issued any statement regarding the claims.
Political analysts warn that such early confrontations could heighten political temperatures in Kisumu ahead of upcoming civic and national engagements. They, however, note that public participation events often attract competing political interests.
Security agencies have not commented on the matter, but sources indicate that preparations for the weekend tour are ongoing, with organizers assuring residents of a peaceful and orderly event.
As anticipation builds, all eyes remain on Kisumu to see whether tensions will ease or escalate further in the coming days.