Police Investigate Aisha Jumwa for Allegedly Slapping Woman at a Funeral

Gender Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa speaking during the Turkana Cultural Festival on October 12, 2023.
Former Gender Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa speaking during the Turkana Cultural Festival on October 12, 2023.
PCS

Kenya Roads Board Chairperson Aisha Jumwa could face legal action after reportedly assaulting the National Government Affirmative Action Director, Ruth Bendera, in Kaloleni, Kilifi County.

Bendera reportedly complained to the former Cabinet Secretary after Jumwa allegedly slapped her during a recent engagement.

Kilifi sub-county police commander Stanley Tanui has since confirmed the complaint, which was filed on Saturday, November 15, at the Kilifi Police Station.

The Saturday incident has since led to some unrest in Kilifi as area locals condemned Jumwa for what has been termed as a tendency for gross misconduct, especially during funerals.

"We, as the youth, will not tolerate a leader who is all about violence. We condemn the actions," one local said.

Bendera Aisha Jumwa
Aisha Jumwa and Ruth Bendera during a function in Kilifi
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Kilifi News

Another added, "We condemn the actions of Aisha on Bendera; she was a bad example, and Bendera is such a small person politically compared to her. That is not respectful."

Bendera attributed Jumwa's hostility towards her to her differing political views ahead of the 2027 elections.

Bendera used to have a good relationship with Jumwa, but the two fell out in recent months, especially after the former CS was appointed non-executive chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board.

In a Gazette notice dated January 17, Ruto said she would serve in the position for a period of three years with effect from the appointment date.

Jumwa's January appointment was largely seen as a strategic incentive by the President for her continued support towards the Kenya Kwanza government.

Meanwhile, Bendera, who is reportedly eyeing the Kilifi Woman Representative seat in 2027, has previously accused Jumwa of betrayal despite investing in her political success.

Earlier in November, a video emerged of Bendera speaking in Kilifi County, where she reiterated that she owed Jumwa nothing.

"My sister Aisha Jumwa, don't go announcing that you gave me a job. We owe each other nothing. I used my resources and cars to campaign for you, and you got a job in the Ministry," Bendera said in the presence of Jumwa.

She went on, "Despite everything, you only handed me a job as a board member earning Ksh10,500 instead of a Nominated Senator position as agreed."

Public Service, Affirmative Action and Gender Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aisha Jumwa presiding over the launch of the Public Service Mental Health Champions Initiative on February 24, 2023.
Former Public Service, Affirmative Action and Gender Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aisha Jumwa presiding over the launch of the Public Service Mental Health Champions Initiative on February 24, 2023.
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Aisha Jumwa
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