Orengo, Allies Condemn ‘State-Sponsored Violence’ at Kitengela Rally
A group of opposition leaders has accused police of killing a civilian during a political rally in Kitengela, saying officers and hired groups used violence against peaceful attendees.
In a joint press statement posted on X on Monday, 16 February 2026, by Siaya County Governor James Orengo, the leaders said the confrontation on February 15 led to the death of one Vincent Ayomo, a young man described as a garage worker who had attended the meeting peacefully.
“We strongly condemn the state sponsored acts of violence by the police and hired goons directed at the peaceful Kenyans exercising their constitutionally guaranteed right to peaceful assembly a Kitengela,” the statement read in part.
The leaders expressed condolences to Ayomo’s family and said he “tragically lost his life in the fight for a better Kenya at the hands of those who are duty bound to protect him.” They added that he had committed no crime and had not provoked the police, and pledged to pursue justice to ensure accountability for his death.
The statement also placed responsibility on President William Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, accusing them of directing the actions of police and hired groups involved in the violence. The leaders said the government had chosen repression instead of addressing public concerns and warned that the use of force would not deter citizens from exercising their political rights.
They urged Kenyans to remain engaged in democratic processes and not to be intimidated, saying citizens would continue to defend their rights through the ballot.
The press statement was signed by several leaders, among them Godfrey Osotsi, Edwin Sifuna, Richard Onyonka, Babu Owino, Caleb Amisi, Caroli Omondi, Ojiambo Oundo, Clive Gisairo, Majimbo Kalasinga, Obadia Barongo, Danson Mwashako, Patrick Makau, Joshua Kimilu, Anthony Kibagendi and Julius Mawathe.
In the same statement, the leaders also addressed the hunger situation affecting millions of Kenyans, calling on the national government to declare the famine a national disaster and provide emergency food support, including assistance to schools in affected areas.
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