Tension Erupts at Bulimbo Catholic Church: A Political Disruption
Tension swept through Bulimbo Catholic Church in Matungu Constituency during a fundraising event, leading to a chaotic scene that disrupted proceedings and shocked attendees. The incident involved former Kakamega Senate aspirant, Winfred Abuti, who is currently campaigning for the women representative seat under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. Notably present during the ruckus were prominent leaders like Speaker Moses Wetangula and Governor Fernandes Barasa.
The Incident Unfolds
The atmosphere escalated just moments after Asiko entered the church, as she intended to attend the fundraising event. Shortly after her arrival, chaos ensued when a group of individuals, suspected to be hired goons, moved towards her, prompting the event organizers to pause the activities for several minutes. Eyewitnesses reported a sense of disbelief as the disruption unfolded in front of political luminaries.
Winfred Asiko’s Account
Speaking to journalists following the incident, Asiko described a harrowing experience. “I saw five men coming towards me while I was sitting,” she recounted. “They forcefully ejected me outside where they began beating me.” Despite being caught off guard, she mentioned that police officers present at the venue intervened. They shielded her from the assailants and safely escorted her to a police land cruiser, evacuating her from the hostile environment.
Support from Local Leaders
Asiko highlighted the support she received from several members of the Kakamega County Assembly who were present during the event. These individuals assisted the police in securing her safety and getting her to a secure location away from the alleged goons. This support showcased a degree of unity among local leaders, despite the escalating tensions.
Allegations and Political Context
In the wake of the incident, Asiko voiced her suspicions regarding the political motivations behind the attack. She alleged that certain politicians, connected to Governor Fernandes Barasa, orchestrated the disruption as a response to her recent campaign activities and public statements targeting them. “I have never lashed out at anyone in my speeches,” Asiko stated, expressing confusion over why such aggression was directed at her in a place of worship.
Shifting Political Alliances
Winfred Asiko’s political journey has seen significant shifts, particularly in her recent decision to support President William Ruto after a fallout with the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K). Having actively campaigned for Ruto in Kakamega, Asiko has been seen attending UDA rallies alongside President Ruto’s aide, Farouk Kibet, signaling a strategic pivot as she positions herself for the women representative seat.
Church Leaders Speak Out
Father Stanlous Osidi, the priest in charge of Bulimbo Catholic Church, condemned the violent episode, urging politicians to treat each other with respect. He emphasized that churches should not become arenas for political skirmishes, noting that the involvement of goons betrays the sanctity of such spaces. “The political class should respect churches. The act of goonism is ungodly,” he remarked, calling for a return to civility in political discourse.
Community Reactions
As news of the incident spread, community members and political observers voiced their concerns about the escalating violence in the political landscape of Kakamega County. Many expressed hope that leaders would prioritize service delivery over hostility, as the repercussions of such confrontations affect not only the politicians involved but the broader community as well.
In a climate charged with political rivalry and unrest, community leaders and citizens alike are left pondering the implications of the recent events for political engagement and safety in their region.