Tension is rising in Bungoma County ahead of the Kabuchai-Chwele Ward MCA by-election after a group of goons raided a hotel owned by Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga. The incident, captured in several videos and images seen by Kenyans.co.ke, showed shattered glass windows, broken doors, and destroyed game tables and chairs at the establishment.
According to reports, the attack was politically motivated, allegedly targeting the MP for supporting Eric Wekesa, one of the aspirants vying for the ward seat in the upcoming November 27 by-election.
Speaking from South Africa, where he is currently on official business, MP Kalasinga condemned the attack and called for peace. “I highly condemn the violence that has been going on in Kabuchai-Chwele Ward. How is an MCA by-election related to my personal property?” he questioned. “Dear residents, let’s maintain peaceful campaigns and uphold dignity. The late Hon. James Barasa was never violent. I truly rebuke this kind of behaviour.”
Kalasinga vowed that the raid would not intimidate him and reaffirmed his support for Wekesa, saying the incident only strengthened his resolve.
Hotel employees narrated the terrifying ordeal, explaining that the attackers gained entry easily due to the absence of police officers, who were reportedly invigilating the ongoing KCSE examinations. “They went to the kitchen, unplugged equipment, carried food, broke windows, and stole goods worth over Ksh1.8 million,” one staff member recounted.
Fortunately, no one sustained serious injuries, except a young boy who encountered the goons while heading home.
Authorities have been urged to investigate the incident and ensure security in the area ahead of the by-election. Wekesa will face off against Ford Kenya’s Vincent Maunda in the race for the Kabuchai-Chwele Ward seat, one of 16 wards set for mini-polls later this month.
