Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa and Senator Boni Khalwale engaged in a heated verbal exchange, during a burial on February 17.
The clash unfolded during the funeral service of the late Mzee Joseph Khagali in Lubao, Isukha North Ward, Shinyalu Sub-County, where emotions ran high as the two prominent figures sparred over their roles and responsibilities in the devolved government.
Senator Khalwale criticized Governor Barasa, urging him to focus on completing the projects initiated by his predecessor, former governor Wycliffe Oparanya, rather than delving into the politics of 2027.
Khalwale emphasized his understanding of devolution, asserting his right to demand accountability for public funds allocated to the county.
“I understand the meaning of devolution, and when I bring the money, I have the right of asking where the money has gone or how it has been used,” the Senator said.
Khalwale further underlined his determination to hold the governor accountable and advised him to steer of the 2027 politics.
Also Read: Toto Shimanyula: Ex-Mechanic Turned Millionaire Who is Khalwale Big Rival
“I want to encourage you Governor, remove focus on the 2027 politics. You will have a competitor, be it Rose, Perpetwa, Amwoka, Elsy, or Boni Khalwale,” the senator declared.
Fernandes Barasa Hits Back at Khalwale
However, Governor Barasa swiftly rebuked Khalwale’s assertions, reminding him of his role as an oversight authority rather than a directive force in implementing the county’s development agenda.
“Khalwale, you are not going to direct how I am going to implement my manifesto. Your work is oversight, and the constitution does not prescribe a senator to tell a governor what to do,” Barasa retorted, defending his autonomy as the elected leader of Kakamega County.
The verbal sparring escalated as Barasa accused the Senator of failing to provide the county with its allocated funds, citing a significant budget deficit that hindered development initiatives during Khalwale’s tenure as senator.
“Kakamega County has a budget of Ksh 17billion. When you come here, Khalwale, you have to tell the residents the truth, and the truth is that you have not given me the Ksh 17billion,” Barasa asserted.
Also Read: Oparanya Endorses Khalwale’s Gubernatorial Bid
The rift between Governor Barasa and Senator Khalwale was further underscored by Khalwale’s absence during a recent visit by President William Ruto to discuss crucial development projects in the county.
“During a recent visit by President H.E Dr. William Ruto, where we gathered to discuss crucial development projects in the County, including the completion of the Kakamega Level-6 hospital, Kakamega Airport, and Bukhungu International Stadium, the Senator was conspicuously absent,” he added.
The rift between the Governor and Senator underscores the intricate political dynamics at play within Kakamega County, where personal ambitions and governance responsibilities collide amidst mounting public scrutiny.
As the feud continues to escalate, the future of development in the region hangs in the balance, contingent upon the ability of its leaders to set aside their differences and prioritize the needs of the people.
