Orengo, Babu Owino Accuse State of Framing Supporters, Threaten Action Against PS Omollo

Leaders allied to the Linda Mwananchi movement have accused the government of orchestrating a crackdown on their supporters through what they termed as fabricated criminal charges, escalating tensions between the opposition and state agencies.

Speaking after a series of arrests targeting their allies, James Orengo and Babu Owino claimed the arrests were part of a wider scheme to intimidate dissenting voices and weaken grassroots mobilisation. The two leaders alleged that security agencies were acting on political instructions to link their supporters to criminal activities without sufficient evidence.

Orengo argued that the pattern of arrests points to a “deliberate and coordinated effort” to criminalise legitimate political expression. He warned that such actions risk undermining public confidence in law enforcement institutions and could deepen political divisions across the country.

Babu Owino, on his part, said the movement would not be cowed, insisting that those targeted were being punished for exercising their constitutional rights. He accused the state of using the justice system as a tool of suppression, adding that the group was exploring legal avenues to challenge the arrests and seek accountability.

The leaders further threatened to initiate private prosecution proceedings against Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, whom they accuse of overseeing the alleged crackdown. They argued that holding senior officials personally accountable would set a precedent against the misuse of state power.

Their remarks come in the wake of heightened political activity linked to the Linda Mwananchi movement, which has been mobilising support across several counties. Recent events, including large public gatherings, have drawn both support and criticism, with authorities raising concerns over public order and security.

However, the opposition leaders dismissed claims that their supporters were involved in unlawful activities, maintaining that the gatherings were peaceful and within the law. They challenged the government to present credible evidence in court rather than rely on what they described as “trumped-up charges.”

The unfolding standoff sets the stage for a potential legal and political battle, as the leaders push back against what they see as state overreach. Analysts warn that the dispute could further strain relations between the opposition and the government if not addressed through transparent legal processes.