Lugari: Lugari Member of Parliament Nabii Nabwera has refuted media reports alleging he has reconciled with Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, vowing not to support his re-election in 2027.

According to Kenya News Agency, Nabwera addressed the press at the Parliamentary office in Lumakanda town, dismissing the purported Wednesday handshake at a funeral in Lwandeti as political theatrics orchestrated by the governor's cronies. He clarified that during the funeral service of Elam Muchai Mukhuyu, attended by Governor Barasa, a number of events unfolded, including a supposed 'handshake' which has stirred speculation in the media.

He emphasized the importance of setting the record straight, noting that various speakers, including Members of County Assembly Niver Luyayi and Dan Mukhwami, appeared rehearsed in their appeal for cooperation between him and the governor for the benefit of Lugari residents. Nabwera clarified that his critical stance on issues affecting his constituents does not imply hostility towards the governor, as oversight and accountability are fundamental to his role as an elected leader.

Nabwera, citing his Tachoni customs that prohibit handshakes at funerals, recounted recent months of disparagement from the governor's surrogates, led by Deputy Ayub Savula, who have resorted to calling him derogatory names. He denounced social media posts insinuating a reconciliation as baseless and misleading.

He further explained that when the governor requested a handshake during the funeral, he viewed it as political theatrics. Nabwera chose to respond to the gesture out of goodwill for collaborative development, clarifying that it should not be misconstrued as political alignment or support for Barasa in 2027.

Nabwera stressed that a genuine reconciliation requires addressing the underlying issues, including past abuse and discrimination against county staff associated with him. He stated that his commitment as an electorate and supporter of the governor in the 2022 election concludes in 2027 when he will endorse his preferred candidate, Elsie Muhanda, the current Kakamega County woman representative.

During the burial of 84-year-old Elam Muchai Mukhuyu in Lwandeti Ward, Governor Barasa expressed his willingness to work with all elected leaders for the prosperity of Kakamega County, acknowledging Nabwera and seeking his cooperation to deliver on their commitments to the people.