Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has issued a stern warning to visiting politicians, cautioning them against using the county as a stage for tribal or divisive politics. Speaking during the launch of a rural electrification project in Malava’s Butali/Chegulo and Chemuche Wards, Barasa emphasized that Kakamega is focused on development and service delivery not political theatrics.
“Let leaders mind their counties. Kakamega is not a playground for tribal politics,” Barasa declared. “We are focused on service delivery, not empty noise.”
Barasa specifically took aim at Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, accusing him of attempting to sow division in Kakamega through tribal rhetoric. Natembeya had earlier criticized Barasa’s leadership and the Raila-Ruto political handshake during a recent opposition rally in Kakamega. The rally, attended by leaders such as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Eugene Wamalwa, featured sharp attacks on the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Barasa defended the Raila-Ruto partnership, calling it a strategic move aimed at ensuring peace and accelerating development. “We are here to work. This partnership is about bringing power, roads, water, and jobs to our people,” he said.
The governor stressed that Kakamega residents are more concerned with tangible progress than political posturing. The rural electrification project, targeting 152 households in its initial phase, is being implemented through a partnership between the national government’s Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) and the Kakamega County Government, which has committed Sh30 million.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who attended the launch, praised Barasa’s leadership and commended the county’s ongoing development initiatives.
Barasa also highlighted achievements in infrastructure, health, and education. He urged residents to enroll in the newly launched Social Health Authority (SHA) and BarasaCare for affordable and accessible health services.
“Kakamega will not grow through noise or tribal slogans, but through real work. We are here to light up homes, schools, and businesses. We stand for development, not distractions,” he concluded.
The event drew local MCAs, county executives, and both national and county officials, reinforcing Barasa’s call for unity and a development-centered agenda.
