Former Defense Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa and Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa found themselves engaged in a heated exchange over the escalating cost of living, which nearly resulted in a physical altercation.
The confrontation unfolded during a funeral in Tongaren Constituency, Bungoma County, where Barasa forcefully seized the microphone from Wamalwa to prevent him from criticizing the government’s handling of the cost of living.
“The cost of living is high and Kenyans are hurting yet our friends are saying that this is a global problem and there is nothing they can do about it. Nothing can be further from the truth,” Wamalwa said.
Wamalwa pinpointed high fuel prices as a consequence of domestic policies rather than international affairs.
“It is President William Ruto’s problem through high taxes. The Finance Act 2023 doubled the Value Added Tax on fuel,” Wamalwa stated.
In a surprising twist, Barasa forcibly intervened, challenging Wamalwa’s credibility to critique the President.
“Eugene Wamalwa, you have no gravitas to lecture the government about the cost of living. You were the CS of Defense but did nothing,’ the MP said.
Barasa suggested that Wamalwa should focus on seeking elective office in Trans Nzoia County, his hometown, in 2027, implying a lack of faith in Wamalwa’s ability to contribute meaningfully to the country’s governance.
Ironically, despite shutting down Wamalwa, Barasa is aligned with the Kenya Kwanza leaders who are urging President Ruto to address the issue of high fuel prices.
Sam Oduor is the founder and one of the editors at WKT. With a strong background in Communication and Journalism, Sam is an experienced digital media expert currently building a team of young professionals dedicated to telling the story of our community in a unique, authentic way.
