By SHABAN MAKOKHA
MARCH 20, 2026| The dawn of Eid-ul-Fitr on Friday brought a wave of emotion across Kakamega as families streamed into mosques, children in new clothes clung to their parents’ hands, and the aroma of fresh mandazi and chapati filled the morning air.
For many worshippers, this year’s celebration felt especially meaningful after weeks of fasting, sacrifice, and intensified charity during the holy month of Ramadhan. At the heart of it all was Governor Fernandes Barasa, who joined thousands of Muslim faithful in prayer, fellowship, and celebration.
Mr. Barasa used the occasion to call for unity while issuing a stern warning to political rivals he accused of spreading falsehoods about his administration’s performance.
The Governor attended Eid prayers at Shianda Jamia Mosque in Mumias East, where he mingled with families, shared greetings with children, and took part in community charity drives. Congratulating the Muslim community for completing the month-long period of fasting, reflection, and charity, Barasa urged residents to embrace unity, generosity, and peaceful coexistence as Ramadhan came to a close.
At the Shianda grounds, hundreds of Muslim faithful gathered for prayers, lifting their hands in gratitude after a month of fasting. But beneath the joy of celebration, Barasa made it clear he would not remain silent as critics attempt to undermine his development record.
“Today is a day of peace, but let me speak the truth,” Barasa said after prayers. “Some leaders have made it their mission to demean the work we have done for this county. I want to tell them—focus on service, not propaganda. Kakamega people are not blind.”
His remarks came amid increasing political tension ahead of 2027, with rivals questioning the pace of county projects. County Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda claimed the Governor was doing little in terms of development. Barasa insisted his administration has delivered in key areas including education, water, health, infrastructure, and bursary support.
“We are building roads, constructing ECDE centers across the 12 sub-counties, expanding water access, equipping hospitals, supporting our youth—and the results are visible, but some people are too drunk to see,” he said firmly.
Despite the political undertone, human emotion defined much of the day’s celebrations. Mr. Shaban Oteng’o said he appreciated the Governor’s presence during the festivities. “When a leader comes to celebrate with us, it shows respect. But politics should not divide Kakamega. Leaders must remain honest with the people,” he said.
Muslims of all ages—children, youth, and the elderly—surrounded the Governor after prayers, some urging him for a photo. Their laughter offered a soft contrast to the politics swirling around.
Local religious leaders thanked the Governor for standing with the community and recognizing the significance of Eid. Sheikh Idris Lubale, the Kakamega County chairman of the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya, noted that the Governor’s presence demonstrated respect and solidarity.
Sheikh Lubale urged leaders to protect the county’s peace. “Islam teaches patience, humility, and truth,” he said. “If our leaders uphold these values, Kakamega will prosper. Eid is a time of joy, but also a time of building bridges. We appreciate the Governor for celebrating with us and for supporting initiatives that benefit both Muslims and the larger community.”
He rallied Muslims across the county to support Governor Barasa’s second-term bid in 2027, saying he had proven to be closer to the Muslim community than ever before.
Barasa also used the occasion to highlight his administration’s partnerships with Muslim institutions, especially in providing relief support to widows, orphans, and vulnerable households. He distributed foodstuffs to vulnerable members of the Muslim community from all 35 mosques in Mumias East.
“Eid teaches us that kindness is not seasonal,” Barasa said, addressing worshippers after prayers. “We must continue lifting one another—especially the vulnerable—because a community only rises when no one is left behind. Let this Eid-ul-Fitr renew our commitment to caring for one another. No amount of politics will distract us from delivering development.”
He added, “Let us use this celebration as a reminder that we are one people. By supporting each other, we can build a prosperous and peaceful Kakamega County.”
Nearby, 65-year-old Hawa Nyangweso, a widow, wiped tears as she received a food package donated by Governor Barasa. She said the gesture gave her a reason to smile after months of straining. “Sometimes you feel forgotten in this world,” she said. “But today, Allah sent someone to remind me that I still matter.”
Governor Barasa pledged continued support for social programs that uplift widows, orphans, and low-income families, saying his administration would strengthen partnerships with Muslim institutions.
“Let this day renew our hearts. Let it remind us that we are all equal before God,” Barasa told the crowd. “Kakamega grows stronger when we choose love over division and compassion over indifference.”
Families later flooded markets and food joints across Shianda town, turning the day into one of color, celebration, and renewed hope.
As the festivities continued, one thing was clear: while Eid brought joy and unity, the political temperature in Kakamega is rising—and Governor Barasa made it known he is ready to defend his track record, defend his seat, and tackle his opponents with bare knuckles.
The Governor pledged continued collaboration between his administration and Muslim institutions, especially in supporting vulnerable families through social protection programs.