Ahead of a planned "Linda Mwanainchi" rally in Kisumu scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026, contrasting perspectives have emerged regarding its purpose and security. Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi has strongly criticized the rally's conveners, while Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has provided assurances of adequate security measures, even as investigations into a recent attack on Senator Godfrey Osotsi continue.

MP Samuel Atandi, who also serves as the National Assembly's chairperson, voiced his disapproval of the "Linda Mwanainchi" leaders, stating they have little to offer the region. Addressing residents next to the Kisumu International Airport, Atandi urged the community to remain steadfast in their support for the government and cautioned visiting leaders against personal attacks or confrontational politics, particularly targeting ODM party leader Oburu Oginga. He stressed the importance of focusing on development issues, stating his visit to Kisumu was part of engaging residents on development priorities and gathering ideas for the national budget, a role he performs across the country.

Atandi called for peace and unity despite political differences, welcoming guests but warning against "political provocation" and inflammatory statements. He specifically stated, "If you come here to abuse our leaders or make reckless declarations, including declaring yourself party leader of ODM, that is not acceptable. Kisumu is peaceful, and we expect seriousness. Tell us your agenda first before anything else."

Atandi particularly targeted Governor James Orengo, a convener of the rally, accusing him of failing in his mandate in Siaya County. He claimed that Siaya County was underperforming in development terms, despite allocated resources. "Orengo is, in my view, the biggest failure in terms of devolution. Siaya County is not performing. There is little development to show for the resources allocated," Atandi asserted, urging Orengo to prioritize delivering services in his own county before addressing others. The MP reaffirmed his political camp's strong and unshakable cooperation with President William Ruto, dismissing narratives that portray Kisumu and the wider Nyanza region as unstable for political gain and urging residents to reject divisive politics.

Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, speaking before a Senate committee on Thursday, April 23, 2026, assured that the Kisumu rally would proceed peacefully under tight security. His remarks came in response to concerns raised by Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, who sought assurances that criminal gangs would not disrupt the event. Osotsi is among the leaders, including Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, expected to lead supporters to the rally.

Kanja strongly condemned the April 8 incident in Kisumu where Senator Osotsi said he was attacked and robbed by a group of people at an eatery, stating, "What happened to Senator Osotsi is wrong and unfortunate. Everyone who committed an offence will have their day in court. The use of gangs is going to stop." He confirmed that investigators had identified those behind such groups and their funding. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen further informed Parliament that some suspects linked to the attack had fled the country, with authorities working with international agencies to trace them. Three suspects – Eric Otieno, Vincent Odhiambo, and Carlos Owiti – have been arrested, charged with two counts of robbery with violence and stealing, and released on a Sh1 million bond each, with their case set for mention on May 6, 2026.

Political leaders have continued to demand protection for the right to peaceful assembly. Kisii Senator Okongo Omogeni called for police neutrality, emphasizing the police's responsibility to protect both government and opposition factions. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna confirmed that rally organizers had consistently complied with legal requirements by notifying the police ahead of meetings. Senator Osotsi welcomed the IG's assurance of police protection for the peaceful rally, but urged security agencies to act firmly against political violence. Atandi reiterated the need for unity, stating, "Let us remain united. Kisumu is a key economic hub, and we must protect its image and future."