By Reuben Olita, Busia
Teso North MP Oku Kaunya has condemned the chaotic ODM county elections held in Busia Town on Friday, describing the process as shambolic and violent.
Speaking on Saturday during the burial of secondary school teacher Collins Ino at Kakemer Comprehensive and Primary School, Kaunya accused some politicians of hiring goons to disrupt the exercise, which left several people injured before Governor Paul Otuoma was declared chairman.
“Somebody enters an election hall with 300 goons carrying every kind of weapon, including machetes and clubs. The war of politics only needs the mouth,” Kaunya said.
The MP echoed sentiments by Chelelemuk Catholic Parish priest Fr. Bernard Fwamba, calling for politics to be kept out of funerals. He noted that politics, riddled with endless quarrels, has become the country’s biggest problem, undermining development.
“The culture of some leaders is to engage in endless quarrels. Some of us don’t want conflicts or people quarrelling,” he said.
In his sermon, Fr. Fwamba urged the educated elite to use their knowledge to positively transform society instead of perpetuating harmful practices. He challenged Kenyans to abandon outdated cultural traditions that demean women and instead encourage women’s full participation in socio-economic and political life.
The parish priest further criticized politicians who turn funerals into campaign platforms, urging them instead to stand with bereaved families and provide genuine support.
He also faulted the government for prioritizing the controversial Affordable Housing programme and the Social Health Authority (SHA), arguing that Kenyans are more concerned about a functional health system and access to affordable basic needs.
Fr. Fwamba urged the congregation to work hard, respect the institution of marriage, and foster unity within communities.
