Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has put his foot down on the kind of politics that will be allowed at the burial of his late mother Teresia Nyaboke Onyonka who passed away at Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi at the age of 81.
Speaking during condolence visits at his home Onyonka made clear that only Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna would be permitted to chant the popular Linda Mwananchi rallying call “Wantam” at the ceremony scheduled in Mosocho Kisii County.
“It is only Babu Owino and Sifuna who will say Wantam during my mother’s burial,” the senator declared. He ruled out any other political chanting or campaign-style speeches insisting the send-off must remain dignified and focused on mourning his mother.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati was present during the exchange and listened with a calm smile despite the long-standing rivalry between the two leaders. Both men hail from the ODM political orbit in Gusii though they have clashed publicly over county leadership and political influence for years.
Onyonka is widely linked to a possible 2027 gubernatorial bid against the incumbent Arati which has added tension to their relationship. Yet in a display of political maturity Arati joined other leaders including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga in paying condolences to the bereaved family.
Mama Teresia was described by those who knew her as a humble and resilient woman devoted to her family and community. Her passing drew leaders from across the political divide in Gusii who temporarily set aside differences to console the senator.
The “Wantam” phrase has become a signature chant of the Linda Mwananchi movement fronted by Babu Owino Sifuna and Senate Minority Leader James Orengo. The group has held high-energy rallies across Kenya criticising the national government ahead of the 2027 general election.
By naming only Babu and Sifuna Onyonka appeared to signal respect for their movement without opening the funeral to broader political speeches. The burial is expected to be a largely private affair limited to close family members for the final interment rites.