Salasya Confronted by Rival Supporters at a Kakamega Funeral in Tense Saturday Incident

Saturday turned uncomfortable in Kakamega County after Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya found himself at the centre of a charged confrontation during a burial ceremony, with rival supporters moving on him in scenes that briefly disrupted the event.

The funeral was for Silas Barasa, a brother to Kakamega Governor Fernandes (Watch video)Barasa, and was held at Khabondi Primary School in Mumias East Constituency.

Supporters linked to former Mumias East MP Benjamin Washiali confronted Salasya during the ceremony, setting off a standoff that drew in mourners and security officers who moved quickly to restore order.

Eyewitnesses said rival chants broke out across the gathering, cutting through what was supposed to be a solemn occasion.

Security personnel separated the groups before the situation could worsen, though the mood of the ceremony had already been affected.

Salasya addressed those present after the incident and made clear (Watch video)he understood the political motivations behind what had happened.

The scenes at Khabondi reflect a wider pattern playing out across Western Kenya, where funerals and community gatherings have increasingly been drawn into political battles ahead of 2027.

Observers say rival camps are fighting for grassroots territory, and public functions have become one of the main arenas for that contest.

Salasya has remained vocal in recent weeks, publicly opposing the Finance Bill 2026 during parliamentary debate and arguing that the National Treasury should first address the damage caused by last year's tax measures before introducing new ones.