Funeral in Kakamega Turns Violent — MCA and Police Officer Among Dozens Injured

A burial ceremony in Matungu, Kakamega County, descended into violence on February 8, 2025, after supporters of rival politicians clashed, leaving an MCA and a police officer among the injured. Tensions flared when backers of Governor Fernandes Barasa, MP Peter Nabulindo, and former Sports CS Rashid Echesa confronted each other at the crowded event, prompting chaotic scenes as mourners scrambled for safety.
The funeral of Augustine Odongo, a respected local businessman, was disrupted moments after Governor Barasa arrived amid drum beats and celebration. According to witnesses, his entourage, accompanied by young supporters, sparked outrage among other politically aligned groups. The gathering quickly turned unruly, with youths pelting each other and throwing chairs. In the melee, Mayoni Ward MCA Frederick Watitwa was hurt while trying to help a youth, and a police officer sustained injuries after being struck by stones hurled by the crowd.
Governor Barasa later condemned the violence, calling it the work of paid hooligans determined to disrupt the solemn event. He urged law enforcement to hold those responsible accountable, especially criticizing his political rivals for allegedly mobilizing youth to incite unrest. Meanwhile, both DCI and the Kakamega region’s security apparatus have launched inquiries, summoning Barasa, Nabulindo, and Echesa to clarify their roles in the chaos.
The fallout is expected to deepen political fractures in Kakamega as investigations proceed. With multiple leaders under scrutiny, the incident raises urgent questions about the use of funerals as political battlegrounds and the responsibility of public officials to safeguard peace during communal gatherings.