KAKAMEGA, Kenya – Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, former Cabinet Secretary Rashid Echesa, and Matungu MP Peter Nabulindo have been summoned by police over politically charged chaos that erupted at a funeral over the weekend.
Western Region Police Commander Kiprono Langat confirmed on Monday that the three leaders are expected to present themselves at the Kakamega Police Headquarters on Tuesday for questioning regarding the violence that broke out during the burial of retired chief Gerald Odongo.
The burial, held on Saturday, descended into mayhem following the arrival of rival political factions, leaving over 100 people injured and property destroyed.
Two individuals alleged to have participated in the violence have already been arrested.
The family of the late Chief Odongo has decried the disruption, lamenting that the chaos forced them to hurriedly lay their loved one to rest.
Speaking to the press, Patrick Lutta, a family representative, said the funeral had been well-organized until political tensions flared up.
“We feel pained. Our father was a peaceful man, and for politicians to turn his funeral into a battleground is unacceptable,” Lutta said.
According to witnesses, signs of tension appeared early in the day when attendees occupied VIP seating, prompting family members to plead for space for invited guests.
The situation worsened when the politicians arrived in quick succession, triggering confrontations that spiraled into full-blown unrest.
“Everything was calm until Echesa walked in, followed by Nabulindo and then the governor. That’s when the chaos began,” Lutta added.
The police have vowed to get to the bottom of the incident, emphasizing that those found culpable will face legal consequences.
