Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has come under sharp criticism for physically confronting a county officer, with Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa now demanding immediate action against the lawmaker.
Senator Khalwale, on Friday, October 3, clashed with Benjamin Andama, the Kakamega County Executive Committee Member for Finance, amid allegations of sabotaging the county's development.
The incident unfolded when the Senate's Devolution Committee visited the county as part of the lawmakers' routine oversight to inspect stalled projects in the county.
In a video shared by Khalwale on his social media platforms, the two leaders could be heard exchanging words, with Khalwale heard pledging the arrest of Andama over alleged corruption.
Things quickly escalated after Khalwale aggressively shoved Andama on the chest. However, the other Senators quickly intervened, quelling the matter, which had begun to get out of hand.
Following the incident, Kakamega Governor Barasa has released a statement calling on Senate Speaker Amason Kingi to expedite investigations against Khalwale's actions.
In a statement on Saturday, October 4, Barasa also called on the relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure justice for CECM, Benjamin Andama.
According to the Governor, decisive action against Khalwale would ensure that the Senate's role and integrity in overseeing development in counties are protected.
"The conduct displayed by Senator Khalwale turned out to be regrettable and abhorrent. We call upon law enforcement agencies to ensure justice for CECM, Benjamin Andama," Barasa stated.
"We affirm that we shall not condone violence, intimidation, or disrespect against our officers, who continue to serve the people of Kakamega County with diligence and dedication," he added.
Barasa further took issue with Khalwale's controversial comment in which the latter termed Kakamega's CECMs and Chief Officers as "very junior people".
The Governor stated that such language not only demeans the dignity of public officers but also contradicts the spirit of mutual respect and collaboration expected between the Senate and county governments.
