Edwin Sifuna and Babu Owino Shield “Goon” from Furious Crowd During Kakamega Rally Chaos
Tension gripped Kakamega on Saturday after the Edwin Sifuna Babu Owino rally chaos unfolded dramatically at Amalemba grounds, forcing the two leaders to physically intervene and rescue a suspected infiltrator from an angry crowd.
The rally, part of the third edition of the Linda Mwananchi movement, had drawn supporters from across Kakamega town. Led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, the gathering followed earlier rallies in Busia and Kitengela.
But what began as a political mobilization quickly descended into confusion.
Teargas Sparks Chaos
Midway through the event, police officers lobbed teargas canisters to disperse the swelling crowd. The sudden action triggered panic, with sections of attendees attempting to flee.
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Sifuna, however, urged supporters not to scatter. He asked them to remain calm and shield themselves from the smoke instead of running.
It was in the confusion that individuals believed to be goons reportedly infiltrated the rally. According to eyewitness accounts, some attendees quickly identified them and reacted violently.
One suspected infiltrator was cornered and beaten severely.
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Dramatic Rescue on the Podium
As blows rained down, Babu Owino stepped forward, appealing to the youth to stop the violence.
“Don’t beat him even when he is wrong. Leave him alone, don’t beat him. Take him to hospital,” Babu pleaded with the irate crowed.
Despite his repeated appeals, the crowd did not immediately relent. The situation escalated, forcing Sifuna to physically intervene. Together with Babu, he pulled the injured man toward the podium in an effort to shield him from further assault.
Even as the man crawled toward safety, canes reportedly struck his back before he was finally secured behind the stage.
The incident added a dramatic twist to what was meant to be a rally focused on political messaging.
Growing Political Rift Within ODM
Beyond the chaos, the rally underscored deepening divisions within the Orange party.
Sifuna’s faction has openly opposed any suggestion that ODM should back President William Ruto for re-election in 2027.
They are in direct rivalry with a camp loyal to Oburu Oginga, who assumed leadership of the party following the death of Raila Odinga last October.
The Oburu-led team has indicated readiness to work with Ruto and support his 2027 bid, a stance Sifuna’s faction strongly rejects.
According to Sifuna and his allies, the current regime has failed Kenyans and mismanaged the country, making any endorsement unthinkable.
Security Concerns at Political Rallies
The Kakamega rally chaos now raises fresh questions about security preparedness at political gatherings. Teargas deployment, suspected infiltration, and mob reactions painted a picture of a charged political climate.
With the 2027 election cycle slowly taking shape, tensions within opposition ranks appear far from settled.
For now, the image of two senior politicians shielding a suspected goon from mob justice has become the defining moment of the Amalemba rally.
Also Read: Police Issue Strong Warning Ahead of Edwin Sifuna’s Kakamega Rally
Edwin Sifuna and Babu Owino Shield “Goon” from Furious Crowd During Kakamega Rally Chaos
