Khalwale condemns violent chaos at Mukoyani burial ceremony

Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has strongly condemned the violence that broke out during the burial of Madam Caroline Khamete in Mukoyani Village, Ikolomani Constituency, describing the incident as shameful and unacceptable.

The funeral, held on April 11, 2026, was disrupted by clashes that turned a solemn occasion into chaos.

According to reports, groups of youth fought openly during the ceremony, using crude weapons and causing panic among mourners. Several people were injured, including one man who was stabbed in the arm and taken to hospital for treatment. Witnesses said the situation worsened as mourners fled for safety, with parts of the ceremony interrupted.

In his statement on Sunday, April 12, 2026, Senator Khalwale said the incident showed a worrying decline in respect for public order, even during burials.

"What should have been a peaceful farewell to a dedicated public servant was turned into a scene of violence and fear," he said. "It is shameful that such acts can happen in the full view of security officers."

Calls for swift justice

Khalwale further claimed that the violence was linked to supporters aligned to some senior county officials, amid ongoing political tensions in the county. The two leaders mentioned have not publicly responded to the specific claims made in the statement.

He also called on security agencies to act quickly.

"I urge the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to arrest and prosecute those who turned a funeral into a battleground," he said. "We cannot allow goons to control our public gatherings."

He warned that continued political rivalry risked deepening divisions in Kakamega. The senator also appealed for calm and urged leaders to take responsibility for their supporters.

He extended condolences to the family of Madam Khamete and wished those injured a quick recovery. He further called for a thorough investigation into earlier claims surrounding her death, which he said should be handled by relevant authorities without interference.