Tension briefly gripped the burial of Boni Khalwale’s wife at Malinya in Kakamega after Budalang’i MP Raphael Wanjala faced heckling from mourners who demanded that he publicly declare support for the popular “Ruto Wantam” slogan.
The political drama unfolded as Wanjala addressed mourners gathered to bid farewell to Khalwale’s wife.A section of the crowd repeatedly chanted the slogan, apparently expecting the MP to echo it during his address.
Instead, Wanjala called on residents of Malinya to support Edwin Sifuna and Linda Mwanachi, whom he presented as leaders capable of championing the interests of local communities.
His remarks failed to win the support of everyone at the gathering. Some mourners interrupted the legislator several times, insisting that he first respond to their demand before proceeding with his speech.
As the heckling intensified, Wanjala appealed for calm and urged mourners to maintain order despite their political differences.
He also cautioned residents against violence, particularly at a time when the community was mourning.
The MP referred to violent incidents recently reported in Homa Bay, saying such developments should serve as a warning to communities across the country. He stressed that political disagreements should not be allowed to turn into confrontation or violence.
The incident highlighted the increasingly charged political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 general election.
Wanjala’s support for Sifuna appeared to clash with the political expectations of some mourners, who wanted him to embrace the slogan they were chanting.
The crowd later made broader political demands, with some individuals calling on the MP to align himself with the political camp associated with Sifuna.
The disruption eventually overshadowed much of Wanjala’s address, turning what was expected to be a solemn farewell into a moment of political tension.
The episode demonstrated how deeply political loyalties are shaping public gatherings in Kakamega as leaders position themselves ahead of the next presidential contest.