By Duncan Waswa
BUNGOMA, July 14, 2025 — A section of opposition leaders, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, have launched a blistering attack on President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of plunging the country into turmoil through divisive rhetoric, economic mismanagement, and the misuse of state power.
Speaking during a women’s empowerment fundraiser in Kabuchai constituency—hosted by area MP Majimbo Kalasinga—Sifuna condemned what he termed as “reckless” orders by the President to police officers to shoot at protesters. He warned that such utterances, echoed by some of Ruto’s allies, were dangerous and posed a direct threat to democratic freedoms.
“We cannot have a president who orders police to shoot his own citizens. This is not leadership—it’s tyranny. Kenyans have a right to protest,” said Sifuna, drawing cheers from the crowd.
The Nairobi Senator also challenged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to take firm action against political leaders making threats to disrupt the 2027 general elections. He insisted that IEBC has a constitutional duty to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
“The IEBC must act. These threats to sabotage the next election must carry legal consequences,” he said.
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi echoed the criticism, accusing Kenya Kwanza leaders of systematically undermining politicians from Western Kenya. He said the region has visionary leaders capable of national leadership and should no longer be treated as second-class citizens.
“We are tired of being looked down on. Western Kenya has leaders with capacity and vision. We demand respect,” Amisi stated.
Amisi also took aim at leaders from the region who he claimed had overstayed their welcome without delivering results.
“We must reject recycled politicians and elect youthful, progressive minds who can drive development forward,” he added.
Bumula MP Jack Wamboka joined the chorus, blaming past regional leaders for the collapse of local industries. He accused them of selling off public factories, which once anchored the region’s economy, for selfish gain—resulting in youth unemployment and rising crime.
“Our factories were the lifeline of this region, but they were sold off, leaving our youth hopeless. We must revive them to restore dignity and jobs,” said Wamboka.
Host MP Majimbo Kalasinga added his voice to the growing outrage over President Ruto’s remarks on police use of live ammunition. He urged the Head of State to apologize, warning that such language is unworthy of the presidency.
“We cannot normalize a president calling for bloodshed. He must apologize to the people of Kenya,” Kalasinga said firmly.
Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi praised Kalasinga for organizing the women’s event and used the platform to reaffirm his 2027 bid for Bungoma governor. He pledged to make women and youth empowerment his top priorities if elected.
“As governor, I will ensure women can support their families and that youth are equipped with tools to thrive,” Wanyonyi said, adding that economic empowerment is the most effective strategy against teenage pregnancies and crime.
Meanwhile, Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa—one of Ruto’s staunchest defenders in the region—reaffirmed his own ambitions to run for Bungoma governor in 2027. He dismissed attacks from political opponents, saying his political destiny lies in the hands of the people.
“My journey will not be derailed by envious detractors. The people of Bungoma are my strength, and I will continue to serve them,” Barasa said.
The Kabuchai event brought together a unified opposition front in Western Kenya, signaling renewed regional solidarity and a shift in political momentum ahead of the 2027 elections. The leaders pledged to keep the Kenya Kwanza administration in check while championing economic revival, accountable leadership, and the protection of civil liberties.