Kakamega County First Lady Demands Apology from MP

Prof. Janet Kassily Barasa, known locally as the First Lady of Kakamega County, has accused the area’s Woman Representative, Elsie Muhanda, of spreading false and damaging statements about her. Through her legal team, Prof. Barasa claims the remarks have hurt her reputation and created unnecessary tension in the community. The issue stems from comments made during a recent public gathering, and it has quickly drawn attention because of the high-profile roles held by both women in local politics.

The controversy traces back to April 5, when Elsie Muhanda spoke at a mourning event for the late Caroline Khamete Ambale, who had served as principal of Kakamega County Polytechnic. According to Prof. Barasa’s side, the Woman Representative suggested in her speech that the First Lady had known about the death ahead of time and had even interfered with the body before the deceased’s husband could reach the scene. These words, delivered in Swahili, appeared to point fingers at Prof. Barasa and implied possible wrongdoing in the handling of the situation. The First Lady’s team argues that such statements are not only untrue but also deeply damaging, especially when shared in a sensitive setting like a funeral gathering where emotions are already high.

Adding to the matter, a county communications officer named Gabriel Wesa is also being called out. Reports indicate that he recorded the Woman Representative’s comments and shared the video widely on social media platforms including TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp. Prof. Barasa’s representatives view this action as helping to spread the alleged falsehoods further, which they say has caused even more harm to her standing in the community. The First Lady believes the entire episode is linked to upcoming political ambitions, noting that Elsie Muhanda may be preparing to contest for the governor’s seat in the 2027 elections. This has raised questions about whether personal political goals are influencing public statements in the county.

Prof. Barasa is now giving the Woman Representative and the communications officer a clear seven-day window to respond. She is asking for a public apology that reaches the same audiences who heard or saw the original comments, along with a written commitment to avoid any similar statements in the future. The demand also includes an acceptance of responsibility should any further steps, such as seeking compensation, become necessary. If the deadline passes without action, her lawyers have indicated they will pursue legal avenues to protect her name. The case highlights the growing focus on accountability and respect in public life, especially as political activities in Kakamega County begin to heat up ahead of future elections. Many residents are now watching closely to see how the involved parties will handle this public disagreement.