Western political tensions flare as Governor Natembeya, MP Bisau clash at burial

Political tensions took centre stage during the burial of former Ambassador and Assistant Minister Burudi Nabwera at his home in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, following a war of words between Governor George Natembeya and Kiminini Member of Parliament Kakai Bisau.

The confrontation briefly disrupted the burial ceremony, as the family insisted on honouring the deceased’s wish to be buried before 2pm.

Tensions erupted after Bisau attempted to interrupt Natembeya, sparking a confrontation between the two leaders and temporarily disrupting the burial programme, which was expected to conclude early in honour of the deceased’s wishes.

The Trans Nzoia Governor accused President William Ruto of failing to deliver on his promises and drummed up support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.

He urged the Western region to rally behind Sifuna’s candidature, even as leaders allied to the broad-based government dismissed Natembeya’s sentiments.

“Tuweke mmoja wetu mbele aende apambane na William Ruto and numbers don't lie," said Natembeya.

Bisau, on his part, interjected, "Na huyu Natembeya ako dini yake na mimi dini yangu mwaka ujao ntampeleka nyumbani."

Opposition leaders said Sifuna has traversed the country promoting the Linda Mwananchi message.

They told those gathered that Sifuna remains the best-suited candidate to challenge President Ruto in the 2027 elections, urging leaders within the opposition to remain united ahead of the political contest.

"Tutaonana ana kwa ana…wataonana mundu kwa mundu," said Bumula MP Jack Wamboka.

Kalasinga MP Majimbo Kalasinga added: "Mtoto mluyha akue rais wa nchi hii ambaye ni Edwin Sifuna, it is your responsibility, bwana Natembeya."

"Kuongea na Rigathi haimaanishi tunapiga Kalonzo au Matiang’i, hapana, sisi sote tuko united under one agenda," said Natembeya.

DAP-Kenya party leader Eugene Wamalwa, who represented former President Uhuru Kenyatta, urged leaders to set aside their differences and build a united front if they are to form the next government.

"Ya kwamba I am convinced the progress we have made that indeed the Luhya vote will go into one basket, mzee. I want to assure you that," said Wamalwa.

Bisau added, "Ukiwa one term au two term usitukane kanisa ya mwenzako wacha kila mtu auze sera zake."