Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has warned Kenya Kwanza that the rising police brutality and extrajudicial killings could jeopardize the broad-based government’s arrangement.
The governor’s remarks follow national outrage over suspicious deaths, including Albert Ojwang’s in custody and fisherman Calvins Onditi’s at Kipasi Police Post, fueling demands for accountability.
Wanga sharply rebuked the administration, stating that ODM’s support for the bipartisan deal hinges on immediate action to curb police impunity, which violates their political agreement.
“Enough is enough. Our agreement prohibits these killings,” Wanga declared in a statement, condemning recent incidents as a breach of the bipartisan pact and demanding urgent reforms.
Public anger surged after cases like Philip Oketch’s shooting during protests and the execution-style killing of an unarmed mask seller, threatening the fragile bipartisan framework’s stability.
Wanga’s words signal ODM may withdraw support unless security reforms are swiftly implemented, placing the Kenya Kwanza administration under intense pressure to address police excesses.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has severally condemned extrajudicial killings and demanding accountability and justice for victims, amplifying calls for systemic change within the security sector.
Political analysts warn that escalating tensions put President William Ruto at a crossroads to either decisively address police brutality or kill the agreement, create instability and his 2027 reelection.
“Wanga’s statement strategic, potentially framing the 2027 election as a referendum on state violence and constitutional rights, shaping ODM’s campaign narrative,” noted Robert Makhokha, a political analyst.