Transport was momentarily paralyzed along the busy Kisumu-Kakamega highway on Thursday, July 3, after a group of rowdy youths lit bonfires in an attempt to block opposition politicians from accessing Western Kenya.
In videos and photos obtained by FMFIX HUB, young men were seen setting tyres ablaze and erecting temporary barricades on the road, forcing motorists to divert to alternative routes.
The incident unfolded ahead of a scheduled visit by a delegation of opposition politicians led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, and Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
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Also present in the convoy were DAP-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa, former Public Service CS Justin Muturi, and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.
Despite the attempt to block their journey, the police swiftly intervened, dispersing the youths and clearing the highway to restore normalcy.
Upon arrival in Kakamega, the opposition team proceeded with their political engagements as planned. During a rally, Dr. Matiang’i accused Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa of allegedly sponsoring the youth to disrupt the event.
He condemned the act as undemocratic and unnecessary, stating that all leaders, regardless of political affiliation, should be allowed to freely engage with citizens across the country.
“We have seen a leader who has been elected by Kenyans attempting to stop us from entering this region. That is stupidity because we are in a democratic nation,” Matiang’i said. He added, “Just like us, he also has the right to hold similar rallies even in Kisii.”
This is not the first instance where the opposition has faced resistance during their regional tours.
On June 21, a similar confrontation occurred in Meru County, where Gachagua’s convoy was blocked along the Meru–Mikinduri highway.
However, local residents intervened, chased away the disruptors, and reopened the road, allowing the leaders to proceed.
The ongoing political tension continues to highlight the growing divisions as the country inches closer to the 2027 General Election, with opposition leaders asserting their right to move freely and engage citizens nationwide.
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