An obituary published for the late Racheal Nakhumicha Kituyi has ignited a national debate over political influence and public appointments following claims highlighting senior government officials and politicians from National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s extended family.
The obituary, published ahead of Kituyi’s burial in Chwele, Bungoma County, listed relatives serving in Cabinet, Parliament, State corporations and independent public institutions. While there is no evidence that any of those named were appointed unlawfully or without meeting constitutional requirements, the publication has renewed public debate over allegations of nepotism, regional balance and merit in government appointments.
The deceased was identified as Speaker Wetang’ula’s aunt.
Among the relatives named are Environment Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa, Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana, Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, Presidential Adviser Harriet Chiggai, and former Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza.
His political standing has been strengthened by years of lobbying for development projects and government appointments in Western Kenya, although critics argue the benefits have not been widely shared.
The controversy has revived criticism from Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya over claims of uneven distribution of government benefits in Western Kenya.
Bungoma gubernatorial aspirant Zachariah Baraza also questioned the concentration of appointments within one extended family, saying nearly 30 per cent of allocations for Western Kenya may be linked to one family.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the 2022 pre-election agreement included commitments on development projects and employment, but claimed most promises had not been fulfilled.
“I was there when the memorandum allocating 30 per cent of government opportunities to Western Kenya was being negotiated,” he said.
Speaker Wetang’ula dismissed claims that Western Kenya had been sidelined, citing ongoing government projects including hospitals, roads, housing and markets.
He described the deceased as a close family member and political adviser.
Family members defended him, saying development projects such as the Sichei hospital would benefit residents.
Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana urged support for President William Ruto’s re-election in 2027.
Kiminini MP Kakai Bisau called for political unity in Western Kenya.
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