A police officer has died, and eight others were injured during clashes linked to the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay County.
The officer, who was attached to Muhoroni Police Division, was travelling from Homa Bay with his colleagues when he was struck on the head by a stone between Olare and Nyangweso trading centres along the Homa Bay to Kendu Bay Road.
He was taken to a hospital in Kisumu County, where he later died while receiving treatment.
Eight officers injured
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem said the officer was part of a team deployed to Homa Bay to reinforce security during the Linda Mwananchi rally.
Koilem said eight other officers sustained injuries during the clashes.
Seven officers were treated and discharged after suffering minor injuries, while another officer who sustained a serious head injury was transferred to a hospital in Kisii Town for further treatment.
The police commander said the clashes occurred as the political gathering descended into chaos on Sunday evening.
22 people detained
Koilem said police detained 22 people in different parts of Homa Bay County in connection with the unrest.
He said those detained were found carrying crude weapons and vehicles with concealed number plates.
The arrests came as security officers were deployed across the county to maintain order during the Linda Mwananchi political activities.
The incidents have raised fresh concerns over violence at political gatherings, with police warning that those involved in disrupting public order would face legal action.
