HOMA BAY, Kenya — As parts of Kenya saw protests turn violent on Tuesday, two counties in the west stood out for a different reason: their calm.
The governors of Homa Bay and Kisumu have publicly praised their residents for maintaining peace during the June 25th anniversary protests.
In a statement released late Wednesday, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga applauded her constituents for marking the day with restraint and respect.
“I take this opportunity to send special gratitude to you, the people of Homa Bay County, for the remarkable way in which you have maintained peace throughout the day,” Wanga said.
She described the peaceful turnout as “a true reflection of the people’s unwavering commitment to unity and national progress.”
Across the country, hundreds took to the streets in remembrance of those who died during past anti-government demonstrations. In many areas, those gatherings were marred by clashes, looting, and heavy police response.
In contrast, Homa Bay’s observance remained largely quiet.
“Your choice to remember our fallen heroes through peaceful engagement is highly commendable and showcases your commitment to a stable and united nation,” Wanga added.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o echoed similar sentiments. While Kisumu has in the past been a flashpoint for political protests, it was relatively calm this time.
Nyong’o thanked residents for showing what he called “constructive dissent” by largely staying away from the streets.
“The people of Kisumu have demonstrated that peaceful resistance can be powerful,” he said, commending their role in protecting both human rights and public order.
The contrast between these two counties and the more chaotic scenes in places like Nairobi and Kakamega was striking.
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), at least eight people were killed nationwide, and hundreds injured, during the day’s unrest. Police reportedly used tear gas to break up crowds in Nairobi, where even journalists were caught in the chaos.
In Kakamega, police confirmed the arrest of 50 people linked to vandalism and looting.
As tensions remain high in other parts of the country, leaders like Wanga and Nyong’o hope their counties’ example might chart a different path one of calm resolve, even in the face of national turmoil.
