What began as a solemn farewell for Bathsheba Otieno, mother to Dr. Ondari, turned chaotic at her send-off ceremony in Mosora.
The event, which drew prominent leaders and supporters, descended into political drama, exposing the deep divisions within Kisii County politics.
The situation escalated upon the arrival of Jacob Bagaka, an MCA, sparking commotion between supporters of Dr. Ondari and Governor Simba Arati.
Tensions have been simmering as Dr. Ondari, the former CEO of Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH) during former Governor James Ongwae’s tenure, has declared his intention to unseat Governor Arati in the 2027 gubernatorial race.
Both leaders hail from Bobasi Constituency, making their rivalry even more pronounced.
The event took a dramatic turn when MP Alfah Miruka, tasked with inviting leaders to speak, handed the microphone to Donya Doris.
Almost immediately, a section of attendees began heckling her. Unfazed, Doris fired back, telling the hecklers to leave, declaring, “This funeral is not yours.”
Video |Furious Kisii County MP Doris Donya Lectures Arati supporters
Doris went on to accuse Governor Arati of lacking legitimate academic papers, a claim that stirred further unrest.
She alleged the governor was sending “goons” to disrupt events and dared him to take her to court.
Doris also expressed support for Dr. Ondari, encouraging him to remain steadfast in his bid to challenge Arati in 2027.
Calls for Unity and Criticism of Leadership
Senator Richard Onyonka, who managed to restore some order, invited former Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa to address the mourners.
Wamalwa, now the leader of the DAP-K Party, extended condolences and called for unity among the Kisii people to vote out President William Ruto in 2027.
He floated the idea of forming a united front, including former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, to strengthen the opposition.
Former Governor James Ongwae also spoke, contrasting the state of the county under his leadership with its current challenges.
His remarks drew applause from many attendees, reinforcing the dissatisfaction with the current administration.
A Snub and a Walkout
Notably absent from the speaking lineup were Kisii County Deputy Governor Robert Monda and First Lady May Arati, despite their presence at the event.
When Dr. Ondari rose to give his vote of thanks, the Deputy Governor, First Lady, and their allies left the venue, visibly disappointed.
The ceremony ended on a somber note, overshadowed by the political theatrics and sharp exchanges.
The event paints the growing political tension in Kisii County, setting the stage for a heated battle ahead of the 2027 elections.
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