Speaking during a funeral in Kabuchai on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, Barasa urged the Speaker to assess the performance and loyalty of his appointees and close associates, warning that political complacency could have serious consequences.
Barasa told Wetang’ula directly that many of the individuals he employed after assuming the Speaker’s position are letting him down.
Barasa told Wetang’ula directly that many of the individuals he employed after assuming the Speaker’s position are letting him down.
He referenced past observations by Trade and Industry Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana, who questioned why Bungoma residents often abandon their leaders when they are at the height of their political careers.
Mukhwana cited the example of former minister and trade unionist Mukhisa Kituyi, who lost his Kimilili parliamentary seat in 2007 despite being a prominent political figure at the time.
According to Barasa, residents of Bungoma elect leaders based on the hope and promises they offer before taking office. However, if leaders fail to deliver on these promises or improve the lives of their constituents, they risk losing public support.
According to Barasa, residents of Bungoma elect leaders based on the hope and promises they offer before taking office. However, if leaders fail to deliver on these promises or improve the lives of their constituents, they risk losing public support.
“These people of Bungoma have nurtured you to the point you are today,” Barasa said.
“If you aspire to a higher position and you don’t use that position to change their life, they will take you home and will have no apologies to make.”
Barasa urged Wetang’ula to convene all individuals he appointed to government positions and demand accountability before the end of the year.
Barasa urged Wetang’ula to convene all individuals he appointed to government positions and demand accountability before the end of the year.
He suggested that those who fail to meet performance expectations should be dismissed, emphasizing that some appointees may have contributed to the Speaker’s recent political setbacks, including the Chwele Kabuchai Ward by-election, where Wetang’ula’s preferred candidate lost.
Barasa also took aim at Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli, who was recently appointed Majority Whip to replace Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale.
Barasa also took aim at Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli, who was recently appointed Majority Whip to replace Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale.
He accused Wakoli of failing to exercise proper oversight over the county government, which he said has weakened Wetang’ula’s political standing in the region.
Barasa noted that before becoming Speaker, Wetang’ula maintained strong oversight over county affairs, a role that has been less effective under Wakoli’s supervision.
