Chaos erupted on Friday in Goseta, Trans Nzoia County, during a burial ceremony as supporters of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya openly clashed.
Police had to intervene as the chaos disrupted the burial ceremony of the late Sandra Nyongesa, wife of former Nominated MCA Phillip Nyongesa.
This marked the first time in months that the two leaders shared a podium. Wetangula and Natembeya have been at odds, openly commenting on issues such as Mulembe nation unity and the battle for a political kingpin.
“There should be no sacred cows. Kenya is a peaceful country. If we want to grow, we must respect each other, even during mourning,” said Wetangula.
Natembeya on his part remarked, “Wanafikiri kuwa kuleta vita wanadhani kuwa huu mchakato utasimama ndio mkoko umealika mauwa, ndio vita imeanza tutapambana hadi pale hii jamii yetu itakuwa liberated…ataleta vita asilete vita lakini hii ndege bado iko kwa runway.”
The events in Trans Nzoia seemed to draw a clear line between two factions.
Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha expressed concern, saying, “Hii maneno tunaona hapa Trans Nzoia kumeharibika….people must stay in peace, and where there is no order it will be brought by fire by force.”
Despite the disruptions, the burial ceremony proceeded hastily, with the deceased’s family laying her to rest.
