Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has challenged retired President Uhuru Kenyatta to account for his administration’s development record in the county during his 10 years in power, as political activity intensifies in Western Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Barasa said Uhuru should explain what his government did for Kakamega residents, claiming the former president visited the county only twice during his two terms.
Speaking in Malava while issuing Sh7 million to 140 women, youth and persons with disabilities groups, the governor said he respected Uhuru as a former Head of State but cautioned political leaders against what he described as divisive politics.
“Uhuru Kenyatta was the President of this country for 10 years. Let him tell the people of Kakamega what he did for them during those 10 years. How many times did he come to Kakamega? He came here only twice,” Barasa said.
He urged leaders to concentrate on issues that unite Kenyans and promote development rather than mobilising communities along political or ethnic lines.
Barasa also criticised Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna over his involvement in the emerging Linda Mwananchi political movement, urging him to put his presidential ambitions on hold and gain more political experience before seeking the presidency.
The governor said Sifuna should consider working within government and avoid being used by politicians associated with the movement.
“You are still young in politics. Take your time, gain experience and wait for 2032,” Barasa said, according to remarks made during the Malava meeting.
The comments come amid growing political mobilisation in Western Kenya, where leaders are positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections and the longer-term 2032 succession debate.
Sifuna has been promoting Linda Mwananchi as a national opposition platform and has publicly indicated his intention to seek the presidency in 2027.
Barasa’s remarks mirror those of Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, who recently urged Sifuna to defer his presidential ambitions until 2032.
The governor also defended his working relationship with President William Ruto, saying cooperation between the national and county governments was necessary to advance development projects and improve service delivery in Kakamega.
Barasa said political differences should not prevent the two levels of government from working together for the benefit of residents.
