Kakamega Funeral Descends into Chaos as Rival Politicians Exchange Blows
An incumbent MCA and an aspirant vying for the Lubinu Lusheya Ward seat clashed physically during a burial service, echoing past incidents of political violence in the region.
A burial ceremony in Kakamega County's Mumias East Constituency was marred by an unexpected physical altercation between two local politicians on Saturday, August 22. The confrontation unfolded in Lubinu Lusheya Ward, transforming a somber occasion into a scene of public disorder.
The scuffle involved Timothy Wanzetse, the incumbent Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Lubinu Lusheya, and Wenslaus Wanzetse, an aspirant challenging him for the seat in the upcoming general election. Wenslaus initiated a verbal attack, accusing the current MCA of neglecting his constituents in favour of personal enrichment.
“Voters are complaining that after electing you, you started buying properties and marrying more wives; as a leader you must learn to embrace people and share with them,” Wenslaus publicly stated, directly addressing his rival.
The aspirant's remarks quickly veered into sustained personal attacks, which proved too much for the sitting MCA. Unable to tolerate the public humiliation, Timothy Wanzetse attempted to forcibly seize the microphone from his rival, immediately sparking a physical fight. The altercation escalated with both men exchanging blows, prompting mourners present to intervene and separate the warring politicians.
This incident is not an isolated occurrence but rather reflects a troubling pattern of political figures losing composure in public settings across Kenya and, by extension, East Africa. Such displays of aggression undermine public trust in leadership and often overshadow the intended purpose of community gatherings, causing concern among citizens.
Indeed, a similar episode occurred just a few years prior within the same Mumias East Constituency. During a funeral in Malaha/Isongo/Makunga ward, Peter Salasya, the area Member of Parliament, publicly assaulted Peter Walunya, a ward representative who had challenged him. A widely circulated video showed MP Salasya calmly instructing Walunya to sit down before delivering a slap, with his security detail subsequently dragging the MCA away. Salasya was later apprehended in connection with that incident.
The recurring nature of such confrontational politics at public events raises significant questions about political accountability and conduct among elected officials and aspirants. This report draws details from Nairobi Leo.