Political Tensions Disrupt Nyakweri Secondary School Fundraiser on Mfangano Island

MFANGANO ISLAND – A fundraiser at Nyakweri Secondary School on Friday, September 4 descended into a political standoff after a confrontation involving Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo, Homa Bay County Assembly Majority Leader Richard Ogindo, and their supporters. The event, intended to support school infrastructure development, was temporarily disrupted by political exchanges and crowd reactions.

The confrontation began when a group of women booed MP Millie Odhiambo during the fundraiser. Odhiambo responded by asking individuals she identified as supporters of Richard Ogindo to leave the gathering and directed police officers to remove those she accused of disrupting the proceedings.

Odhiambo defended her political standing and challenged criticism from her rivals. She also questioned Ogindo’s political experience during the heated exchange.

The remarks followed accusations by Ogindo that the MP had been politically noncommittal by aligning herself with both ODM and the Linda Mwananchi movement. The disagreement quickly escalated, drawing attention away from the main purpose of the fundraiser.

Suba North parliamentary aspirant Silas Jakakimba condemned the incident, describing it as deeply regrettable and calling for tolerance among political competitors. He said that all citizens have a constitutional right to attend public functions and express support for leaders of their choice without intimidation or humiliation.

Jakakimba further alleged that Odhiambo had previously imported supporters to public events to jeer political opponents and create artificial displays of support. He maintained that leadership should be demonstrated through ideas, service, humility, and respect rather than by silencing dissenting voices.

Calling for calm ahead of the upcoming electoral season, Jakakimba urged all leaders in Suba North, including Odhiambo, to exercise restraint and political maturity. He emphasized the importance of peaceful engagement and respectful competition as campaigns intensify across the constituency.