A chaotic scene was witnessed today in Bungoma County during the funeral ceremony of the mother to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Westlands MP Timothy Wanyonyi Wetang’ula.
The event was attended by President William Ruto and other top government officials such as Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya among others.
The funeral which was meant to honor the late Mama Anne Nanyama turned into a political battleground, as Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya faced fierce opposition from the crowd which broke into heckles in front of the President and other dignitaries.
The event in Bungoma quickly spiraled out of control when Natembeya, who is known for his public attacks and challenge on Wetangula’s political dominance, took the stage to offer his condolences. What should have been a moment of unity for the region was marred by loud boos and shouts from the mourners.
The crowd which seemed to have already been divided by political tensions, accused Natembeya of using the solemn occasion to push his own agenda. His attempts to address the audience were drowned out by angry hecklers who demanded he leave. They saw his presence as an insult to the bereaving Wetang’ula, the family and friends.
Despite the chaos, Wetangula’s sister intervened to calm the situation. She called for respect and reminded the mourners that this was not the time for politics. Her passionate plea momentarily quieted the crowd, allowing Natembeya to finish his speech.
By Kenyans