Waiguru said the violence, which was marked by roadblocks, attacks on convoys, burning of vehicles, injuries and loss of lives, was unacceptable in a democratic society.
In a strongly worded statement, the governor said political competition should never become a justification for violence, destruction or bloodshed.
“I unequivocally denounce the growing culture of violence and unrest most recently witnessed in Homa Bay County on Sunday,” Waiguru said.
She said the images emerging from Homa Bay were disturbing, particularly reports and scenes involving attacks on vehicles and convoys, injuries to members of the public and security officers, and the loss of lives.
“The harrowing images of roadblocks, convoys under attack, vehicles set ablaze, injuries to citizens and security personnel, and the tragic loss of lives are unacceptable in a democratic society,” she said.
Waiguru Calls for Peaceful Political Competition
The Kirinyaga governor urged political leaders and their supporters to embrace peaceful competition and respect Kenya's constitutional and democratic institutions.
She maintained that political differences should be addressed through lawful and democratic channels rather than confrontation.
“Our political competition must be with respect to the rule of law and the upholding of human rights—not through destruction or bloodshed,” Waiguru said.
Her comments come as political activity intensifies across the country ahead of the 2027 General Election, with rival political formations increasingly holding rallies and mobilising supporters.
Waiguru warned that the country must be particularly vigilant against political violence as the election season approaches.
“This is even more critical as we head into a season of competitive elections,” she said.
Condolences to Families of Homa Bay Violence Victims
Waiguru also expressed sympathy to families who lost their loved ones during the Homa Bay incidents.
She extended her prayers to those who were injured and wished them a speedy recovery.
“I convey my deepest sympathies to the families mourning loved ones and extend prayers for the swift recovery of all those injured,” she said.
The governor said the events in Homa Bay should serve as a reminder that Kenya's democratic space must be protected by everyone, regardless of political affiliation.
“Kenya is our shared home,” Waiguru said.
She urged Kenyans to reject violence in all its forms and protect the democratic gains made over the years.
“Together, we must reject violence in all its manifestations and safeguard the democratic space that generations of citizens have worked tirelessly to nurture,” she said.
Call for Impartial Security Action
Waiguru also directed her attention to the role of security agencies, insisting that those entrusted with maintaining peace must demonstrate professionalism and impartiality.
She said Kenyans must have confidence that security agencies will protect citizens and maintain order without favouring any political side.
“Those with the responsibility to keep peace and security in Kenya must manifestly be seen to do their jobs impartially and effectively,” Waiguru said.
Her statement comes amid growing concerns over political violence and confrontations at political events in parts of the country.
The Homa Bay incidents have sparked condemnation and renewed calls for political leaders to exercise restraint, particularly as Kenya moves closer to the 2027 elections.
Waiguru's message was therefore twofold: political actors must respect the law and human rights, while security agencies must carry out their responsibilities fairly and effectively.
The governor's intervention adds to calls for peaceful political engagement at a time when Kenya's political landscape is becoming increasingly competitive.
For Waiguru, protecting Kenya's democratic space requires more than holding elections. It requires political competition to take place without violence, intimidation or destruction.
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