Moments after Kakamega Governor H.E. Fernandes Barasa led residents in marking Madaraka Day celebrations at the historic Bomani Grounds in Mumias, protests broke out in Mumias Town, prompting police officers to intervene with teargas to disperse demonstrators.
The County Government of Kakamega has been rotating national celebrations across its twelve sub-counties, and this year’s county-level Madaraka Day event was hosted in Mumias West Sub-County.
While addressing residents, Governor Barasa highlighted various development projects implemented under his administration’s six-point development agenda. Among the projects mentioned were the maternity wing at Matungu Level IV Hospital, the completion of the Matungu–Ogalo Road, construction of ECDE centres, installation of high-mast floodlights, and several water projects across the county.
The event attracted leaders from the national government, county government, religious organizations, and the private sector.County Commissioner Mr. Onesmus Kyatha read the president’ speech.
- However, shortly after the celebrations concluded, a section of youths took to the streets of Mumias Town, accusing the county administration of sidelining local youth while allegedly ferrying and facilitating attendees from other sub-counties to participate in the event.
The protesters lit bonfires, blocked sections of major roads, and sang songs in support of DCP Deputy Party Leader Hon. Cleophas Malala.
Police officers from Mumias Police Station were forced to lob teargas to disperse the demonstrators, who had effectively disrupted normal business operations within the town.
Religious leaders condemned the protests, arguing that they negatively affected the local economy.
Speaking to the media, Sheikh Abdalla Washiali of Jamia Mosque noted that many business owners were forced to close their shops, resulting in significant losses.
“Madaraka Day is a national celebration observed annually by all Kenyans. It is unfortunate when political interests take advantage of idle youth for personal gains. Those opposed to the current leadership should express their views through the ballot in 2027 rather than engaging in activities that disrupt businesses and public order,” said Sheikh Abdalla.
Several youths were reportedly arrested during the demonstrations and taken to Mumias Police Station for questioning.
One resident, Rashid Omumia, claimed that Governor Barasa rarely passes through Mumias Town and often uses alternative routes, a move that some local youths interpret as neglect of the area.
The situation later returned to normal following police intervention, although tensions remained high among sections of the youth who expressed dissatisfaction with the county government’s engagement with local residents.
