Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa and DCP deputy leader Cleophas Malala traded barbs at the funeral of the late public servant Fred Mutali Mutsami in Malava Constituency on Saturday, reigniting their political rivalry.
Addressing mourners, Malala criticized both county and national leadership, accusing Barasa of neglecting Malava Sub-County’s development. He cited poor infrastructure and stalled projects, vowing to unseat Barasa in 2027.
Malala also urged the national government to stop intimidating journalists and media houses critical of it.
Barasa, who is also ODM’s county chairman, dismissed Malala’s remarks as baseless propaganda aimed at winning political support. He accused DCP leaders, including their presidential figurehead, of attacking the government without offering solutions.
The first-term governor warned Malala to expect defeat, calling the ODM-UDA coalition “unbreakable” and confident of a second term.
Barasa touted his rapport with President Ruto, pointing to Ksh12 billion secured for 220km of roads in Kakamega. He also promised the Tumbeni dairy plant would be operational by December and highlighted upgrades to Malava Level IV Hospital, water projects, ECDE centers, and an upcoming Ksh 7 million social protection grant disbursement for Malava.
He further accused Malala of rarely visiting the county and criticized Cooperatives CS Wycliffe Oparanya for meddling in county affairs, urging residents to reject DCP’s narrative.
