Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has expressed her deep sorrow following the tragic death of Ugandan national Mama Noureen Nalwanga during a political rally in the county. She has condemned the violence and is advocating for a thorough, impartial investigation into the incident.
During her visit to the grieving family in Mbuni Estate, Wanga denounced the clashes that erupted on Sunday, August 16, 2026, during a procession organized by the opposition-aligned “Linda Mwananchi” movement. The violence resulted in the loss of Mama Noureen Nalwanga, affectionately known as “NyaUganda,” who tragically died after being struck by a campaign vehicle amidst the political gathering.
“Mama Noureen Nalwanga (NyaUganda) sadly lost her life on Sunday evening after being overrun by a campaign vehicle during the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay,” Wanga stated in a public announcement released on Wednesday evening, August 19, 2026.
I visited her home in Mbuni Estate to stand in solidarity with the family and share in their grief. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and loved ones.
Rejecting accusations from political adversaries that her administration incited the violence, the Homa Bay governor reaffirmed her long-standing opposition to political unrest. “Political violence, provocation, and lawlessness have no place in our society. For nearly 20 years, since my days as a student leader, I have consistently upheld this belief,” she emphasized.
“As I have previously stated, Homa Bay County proudly supports ODM, the very party that tirelessly fought for the democratic freedoms we enjoy today, including the rights to free speech, association, and peaceful assembly.”
Wanga cautioned that political tensions must not infringe upon fundamental rights or escalate into mob violence. “Given the significant sacrifices made by our people and the party to secure these essential freedoms, we cannot afford to watch them erode or be compromised in Homa Bay or anywhere else in our nation,” she affirmed.
“We strongly condemn the violence and provocations that occurred on Sunday, which led to unnecessary loss of life, injuries, and damage to property.”
Addressing leaders from all political backgrounds, the governor urged immediate restraint and the cessation of divisive rhetoric. “I call on all political players, leaders, and supporters to maintain peace, practice tolerance, and refrain from language that inflames tensions or provokes our communities. Political rivalry must never overshadow our shared humanity, dignity, and respect for human life,” she remarked.
Demanding accountability for the chaos that unfolded over the weekend, the Homa Bay governor called on law enforcement agencies to carry out a comprehensive investigation free from political bias. “I have urged the National Police Service to conduct an independent, impartial, and thorough investigation into Sunday’s events and to take appropriate legal action against anyone found responsible, regardless of their political affiliations,” she stated.
“We owe it to Mama Noureen’s family, to those who were injured, to the people of Homa Bay, and to our nation, to ensure that justice is served and the rule of law is upheld.”
