Kakamega Showdown: Fernandes Barasa vs. Boni Khalwale Over Public Toilet Launch
- The Governor of Kakamega, Fernandes Barasa, has criticized Senator Boni Khalwale for opening a new public restroom in Kakamega town, stating that he exceeded his authority.
- Barasa alleged that Khalwale was indulging in publicity stunts rather than fulfilling his duties as a senator for oversight.
- Khalwale retaliated, charging the governor with embezzlement of county resources and ignoring the requirements of individuals with disabilities.
DIWIDA.NEWS |.co.ke reporter Ivan Mboto boasts more than three years of expertise covering politics and contemporary issues within Kenya.
The reopening of a public restroom in Kakamega has sparked a political controversy involving power struggles and duties, with high-ranking officials from the county exchanging harsh remarks.
The Governor of Kakamega, Fernandes Barasa, has strongly criticized Senator Boni Khalwale regarding the reopening of the Muliro Gardens public restroom. The facility was previously closed because of a clogged sewage system and insufficient water supply.
During the distribution of fertilizer and farming tools to disadvantaged households in Ikolomani Sub-County, Barasa voiced his dissatisfaction with Khalwale’s behavior, labeling it as inappropriate and unwarranted.
“I want to tell Khalwale that opening toilets is not part of your job description. Go back to the Senate and learn what the mandate of a senator entails,” Barasa said.
He encouraged the senator to focus on his constitutional duty of oversight rather than getting involved in issues beyond his jurisdiction.
"I'm amazed that an entire senator can boast about reopening a toilet when he isn’t even aware of its history. You don't even know who built it," the governor commented additionally.
Barasa’s comments came after Khalwale dramatically reopened the facility on Monday, April 7. During this event, the senator urged the governor to show respect for individuals with disabilities (PLWDs), who depend significantly on these public facilities.
What statement did Boni Khalwale make when he reopened a toilet facility in Kakamega?
Khalwale charged the county administration with overlooking vulnerable populations, stating that shutting down the center had particularly impacted people living with disabilities (PLWDs).
"Barasa, cease mistreating individuals with disabilities in this county. They have the right to use all public facilities, and closing down toilets is not acceptable," Khalwale stated.
The senator additionally claimed that Barasa was embezzling public money for his own benefit, labeling him as incapable and cautioning that efforts would be made to remove him from office during the subsequent general election.
"You have abused county resources, Barasa. You are inept, and I will remove you from office if you do not begin serving the people of Kakamega," Khalwale stated firmly.
The toilet in question had been catering to the general public, particularly individuals with disabilities. Reports indicate that it was shut down a week ago by the local health department because of sewage obstructions and insufficient water supply.
Khalwale criticizes Ruto for overlooking the Luhya region
As an associated move, Khalwale criticized President William Ruto for neglecting the developmental priorities of the Luhya community.
Khalwale expressed his disappointment over the poor condition of the roads, shuttered factories, and what he called "politicking based on falsehoods."
Cautiously warning about potential political repercussions, Khalwale advised Ruto that they shouldn’t count on their backing in 2027 should the area continue to be overlooked.
