Malava, Kakamega County – What began as a solemn Sunday church fundraiser in the heart of Malava quickly spiraled into a heated political showdown, as parliamentary hopefuls seized the moment to flex their influence and rally grassroots support ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
Held at St. Paul’s ACK Church in Shirugu-Mugai Ward, the harambee was initially meant to support the church’s ambitious expansion project. However, the sacred grounds of worship turned into an impromptu political arena as aspirants vying to unseat current Malava MP Malulu Injendi traded subtle jabs, showcased their financial muscle, and paraded their political allegiances.
The Money, The Message
The fundraiser, graced by over a dozen local leaders, clergy, and hundreds of congregants, became a stage for power projection. Each of the aspirants made substantial financial contributions—ranging from KES 100,000 to 300,000—sparking murmurs among observers about the early onset of campaign spending.
“We have come here in the name of God, but let us not pretend this isn’t a battlefield,” said a visibly animated Peter Wekesa, one of the contenders. “The people of Malava deserve a new direction, one that listens, delivers, and empowers.”
Wekesa, who is affiliated with ODM, received loud cheers from sections of the congregation, particularly the youth, as he emphasized the need for leadership change and criticized the current administration’s “disconnect” from the people.
Injendi Allies Fire Back
While MP Malulu Injendi himself was absent, his close allies, including MCA Evans Makokha and constituency staff, were quick to respond to the criticism. Makokha defended the incumbent’s track record, pointing to ongoing infrastructure projects, bursary support, and lobbying for the newly approved Level VI Bungoma Referral Hospital that is expected to benefit parts of Kakamega as well.
“It is easy to talk when you’re not in the seat of power,” Makokha said. “But leadership is not about talking the loudest—it’s about delivering quietly and consistently. Malulu Injendi has done that.”
A Tense Religious-Political Mix
Despite attempts by church leaders to steer the event back to its spiritual objective, the political undertones were too loud to ignore. Reverend David Lutomia, the church’s presiding minister, reminded attendees of the sanctity of the venue.
“Today is about giving to the Lord. Let us be reminded that politics is not why we gathered here,” he said. However, his plea fell on deaf ears as chants of rival slogans continued to echo outside the church compound.
Local observers noted the harambee marked a symbolic launch pad for the 2027 Malava MP race, with aspirants clearly testing their grassroots strength in front of the electorate.
Among the new faces attracting attention was Beatrice Khavetsa, a youthful social entrepreneur known for her work with women and youth groups. In her brief remarks, she urged residents to prioritize leaders who embody integrity and development-mindedness.
“I am not here to outshout anyone,” she said, “but to remind our people that the future of Malava must be built on service—not slogans.”
Her moderate yet firm tone earned her quiet admiration among women’s groups in attendance.
Calls for Peaceful Campaigning
As the harambee concluded, security personnel had to intervene to separate rival youth groups outside the church, following a heated exchange. No injuries were reported, but the tension underscored the volatile nature of local politics.
Kakamega County Police Commander Benard Wambua later urged political aspirants to maintain decorum during public functions, especially in religious spaces.
“Places of worship are sacred and should not become campaign battlegrounds. We will not hesitate to take action if peace is threatened,” he said.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, church events, funerals, and fundraisers in Malava are expected to become more politically charged. The Sunday harambee may have been intended to support a noble cause, but it ended up revealing the rising political temperatures in one of Kakamega’s most hotly contested constituencies.
Mulembe Times will continue to follow this developing political race in Malava.
