Tension was witnessed in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, during the burial of former VIP Protection Commandant, SAIG Lazarus Simiyu Opicho, as political disagreements spilled into the solemn ceremony.
Opicho was laid to rest on Friday, October 16, in a ceremony attended by politicians, security officers, family members and mourners.
However, the event was marked by opposition leaders using the gathering to raise concerns about President William Ruto’s administration.
One of the issues that dominated the ceremony was the withdrawal of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya’s security detail.
Politicians criticised the decision, turning part of the burial into a platform for political debate.
Security officials reportedly moved to stop the speeches, cutting microphones and preventing opposition figures from addressing mourners.
Among those affected were Sifuna and Godfrey Osotsi.
Officials argued that the burial should remain focused on mourning and remembering Opicho rather than political matters.
Tension later intensified after a video showing a dramatic moment behind the scenes emerged online.
The footage captured DJ Spider, a familiar face from Raila Odinga’s political rallies before he joined Edwin Sifuna’s camp, being escorted through the venue.
Spider, who wore a Manchester United jersey and a black cap, appeared uneasy as Sifuna’s security officer guided him through the gathering.
He was then instructed to sit directly behind Sifuna, who appeared surprised by the commotion surrounding the incident.
Unconfirmed claims circulating online alleged that police were searching for Spider with the intention of arresting him at the burial.
However, there was no official confirmation from police authorities supporting the claims.
The video sparked widespread discussion online, with Kenyans expressing concern and criticism.
The incident added to an already tense burial ceremony, overshadowing aspects of the farewell to Opicho, a senior police officer remembered for his service in Kenya’s security sector and drawing public attention.