Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has criticised Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa over what he described as the continued promotion of money-driven politics, following a dramatic moment during a burial ceremony in Bungoma County.
The incident occurred on Saturday, May 30, 2026, during the burial of the father of former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati in Kabuchai. The event attracted a host of political leaders from across Western Kenya, who joined family members and residents in paying their final respects.
Tensions briefly emerged when Didmus Barasa reportedly left the venue accompanied by a section of his supporters just as Sifuna was preparing to address mourners. The walkout altered the atmosphere of the gathering and quickly became a subject of political discussion among attendees.
Addressing mourners shortly afterward, Sifuna downplayed the significance of the walkout but used the opportunity to criticize what he termed as a culture of politics driven by financial influence rather than ideas and leadership. He suggested that some politicians have cultivated support primarily through monetary incentives, a practice he argued undermines democratic engagement and meaningful political discourse.
The Nairobi senator said such behavior has become increasingly common in some political circles and urged leaders to focus on issue-based politics that prioritize the needs of wananchi rather than personal political interests.
While Barasa did not immediately respond to the remarks, the exchange highlights the growing political rivalry and competition for influence in the Western Kenya region as leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The funeral gathering, which was intended to honour the late patriarch of the Wangamati family, ultimately became a platform for political messaging and renewed debate over the conduct of leaders during public events.
