Tensions are rising in Kakamega County after First Lady Janet Kassily Barasa demanded a public apology and retraction over alleged defamatory remarks made by Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda.
Through her legal team, Lutta & Company Advocates, Prof. Barasa accuses the legislator of making “false and malicious” statements that linked her to the death of Caroline Khamete Ambale.
In a demand letter dated April 8, 2026, the lawyers state that the remarks were allegedly made three days earlier during a mourning gathering held at the home of the deceased.
According to the letter, Muhanda, while addressing mourners, made statements in Swahili suggesting that Prof. Barasa had prior knowledge of the principal’s death and had interfered with the body before the deceased’s husband arrived.
The legal team argues that, in their ordinary meaning, the statements implied serious allegations — including that Prof. Barasa may have been involved in the death, tampered with evidence, and potentially committed a criminal offence.
The lawyers further claim the remarks were politically driven. They allege that Muhanda, who is reportedly eyeing the Kakamega gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election, intended to discredit Prof. Barasa and indirectly tarnish the reputation of her husband, the current Kakamega Governor.
The dispute has also drawn in Gabriel Wesa, who is accused of circulating a video of the alleged remarks across social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp. The lawyers describe him as a “joint tortfeasor” for amplifying the claims.
Prof. Barasa is now demanding an unequivocal public apology and retraction to be issued through the same platforms used to spread the remarks. She is also seeking a formal commitment to halt any further defamatory statements, alongside an admission of liability to facilitate compensation.
Her legal team has issued a seven-day ultimatum, warning that failure to comply will trigger court action.
