By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 18 May 2026 - Siaya Governor James Orengo on Monday took the Linda Mwananchi campaign to Homa Bay County in a politically charged tour that attracted large crowds, even as parts of the Nyanza region awoke to uncertainty following calls for a motorists’ boycott over rising fuel prices and the high cost of living.
Contrary to fears of widespread disruption, most public service vehicles and private motorists largely ignored the boycott calls and operated normally throughout the day. Transport activities in major towns across Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, Homabay and Kisii continued largely uninterrupted, with businesses opening as usual and commuters going about their daily routines.
Although a section of motorists reportedly chose to keep off the roads in the early hours of the morning, many did so not in support of the boycott itself, but out of concern over possible vandalism or unrest that ultimately failed to materialise.
Across the wider Nyanza region, the situation remained notably quiet, calm and orderly.
There were no major incidents of violence, destruction of property or confrontations reported, as security officers maintained a visible but restrained presence in key urban centres and transport corridors.
Against that backdrop, Mr Orengo arrived in Homa Bay to a warm reception from supporters of the Linda Mwananchi movement, who turned out in large numbers waving placards and chanting slogans associated with economic justice and political reform.
Addressing the gathering, the veteran opposition figure sought to connect the day’s economic anxieties with broader frustrations facing ordinary Kenyans.
“Today the people of Homa Bay have demonstrated courage and political maturity,” Mr Orengo declared.
“Despite the anxiety created around transport and fuel costs, wananchi have refused to be intimidated by fear. Life has continued peacefully because our people understand that democracy and economic justice are not achieved through chaos, but through unity, organisation and a shared national purpose.”
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He praised residents across the region for maintaining peace and restraint throughout the day.
“I commend the people of Nyanza because what we have witnessed today is discipline and responsibility. There were fears in some quarters that there would be destruction or confrontation, but our people remained calm, cool and peaceful. That is the true spirit of democratic engagement,” he said.
Mr Orengo also used the occasion to sharpen criticism of the country’s economic direction, arguing that rising fuel costs and growing pressure on households had exposed deep frustrations among citizens.
“When motorists fear they cannot sustain business because of fuel prices, when traders struggle to transport goods, and when ordinary families are burdened by the rising cost of living, then leaders must stop pretending that all is well,” he said.
The Siaya governor further hinted at broader political ambitions, remarks likely to fuel speculation over his possible national role ahead of the next electoral cycle.
“If Kenyans believe that this country requires bold leadership anchored in justice, accountability and equality, then I am ready to stand with the people in that struggle,” Mr Orengo told the cheering crowd.
Political observers say the Homa Bay rally marked another significant step in the growing visibility of the Linda Mwananchi movement, which is increasingly attempting to frame itself as a grassroots political force capable of shaping the national conversation ahead of future elections.