Grassroots protests are spreading across the Western and Nyanza regions following growing tensions between Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo.
Unlike previous demonstrations often driven by political leaders, the latest protests are being led by women and youth. In Western Kenya, youths converged in Mumias town, while in Nyanza women issued pointed messages praising PS Omollo for what they described as visible community support.
They cited his role in providing housing for widows, funding the education of needy students and creating opportunities for young people.
Youth from Vihiga, Kakamega and Bungoma counties held peaceful marches in Mumias, accusing Governor Wanga of needlessly dragging the PS into politics. The dispute between the two leaders began when Ms Wanga claimed that Mr Omollo backed independent candidate Philip Aroko in the Kasipul by-election, a position that went against ODM’s stance.
Her accusations have since widened into a deeper political contest that could influence ODM’s internal organisation and the political landscape in Nyanza.
Mr Omollo has denied any involvement in the campaign.
Abdulaziz Tabuche, a youth from Mumias who works in Homa Bay County, accused the Governor of political manipulation and called on the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate the use of public resources in the county. He claimed that money meant for development was finding its way into private hands.
He said young people would continue defending Mr Omollo from attempts to politicise his position and distract him from his mandate.
“We stand with Raymond Omollo and ask Governor Wanga to stop, with immediate effect, pulling him into politics,” Mr Tabuche said, adding that the PS was appointed on merit as a technocrat.
Ali Adam, leader of the Kakamega Youth for Peace Forum (KAYPEF), warned that the growing confrontations could trigger political tremors in the region. He urged Governor Wanga to focus on her county responsibilities and avoid interfering with national government operations.
“She erred when she directed President William Ruto to fire the PS. Mr Omollo is a sober leader who listens to everyone, regardless of their status,” he said.
He added that sidelining Mr Omollo would harm vulnerable groups who rely on his interventions.
“Omollo has crossed borders and built houses for widows, helped youth secure employment and paid school fees for needy students. He has shown that he cares about women, youth and the future of our people. Ms Wanga should let the PS work for Kenyans,” said Mr Adam.
In Kisumu, women criticised Governor Wanga for neglecting her duties and creating unnecessary political battles that do not benefit locals.
“Wanga is one of the senior figures in ODM, representing the old guard’s hold on influence. She forgets that Omollo rose through State backing and strong grassroots visibility. His ascent is not tied to ODM structures,” said Norine Akoth from Nyalenda.
The confrontations and the strong reactions from women and youth highlight a gendered dimension in the unfolding dispute. That Ms Wanga, one of the country’s most prominent female governors, is facing resistance from groups of women raises questions about service delivery, political identity and shifting gender dynamics.
The growing rifts may open space for leaders with strong grassroots networks, such as PS Omollo, to reposition themselves as key players in local political configurations.
