Kakamega County | Matungu Constituency | February 2025
MP Peter Nabulindo’s Contribution Rejected
In a dramatic turn of events in Matungu Constituency, Kakamega County, the family of the late Chief and Director Agostino Odongo has publicly rejected and returned funeral contributions made by Matungu MP Peter Nabulindo and former Sports Cabinet Secretary Rashid Echesa. The family cited political interference and disrespect for cultural norms as their reason for the bold move.
Family Returns Cow and Cash Contributions
During the funeral of Chief Agostino Odongo, the Odongo family took a firm stand against what they termed as political exploitation of funerals. They returned a cow and Ksh 15,000 that had been contributed by Matungu MP Peter Nabulindo, even adding a withdrawal fee of Ksh 200 before sending it back. Additionally, the family also rejected Ksh 50,000 from Rashid Echesa, making it clear that they would not allow funerals to be used as political battlegrounds.
Family Speaks Out: “This Culture Must Stop!”
In a strong statement, the family of the late Chief Odongo condemned politicians who disrupt funerals with their contributions, only to turn them into political rallies.
👉 “The culture of disrupting people’s funerals because you have given them a cow and some small cash must stop.” – Family Spokesperson.
Chaos Erupts at Funeral
Sources indicate that tensions flared up at the funeral after supporters of different political leaders clashed. What was meant to be a solemn occasion quickly turned chaotic, leading to concerns about the increasing politicization of funerals in the region.
Political Reactions: Leaders Respond
- Governor Fernandes Barasa strongly condemned the violence, accusing certain politicians of fueling tensions.
- Rashid Echesa dismissed the accusations, denying any involvement in the disruptions.
Growing Concern Over Politicization of Funerals
This latest incident raises serious questions about the intersection of politics and cultural traditions in Kenya. Increasingly, funerals are being turned into stages for political grandstanding, something many families and community leaders strongly oppose.
