Barasa Responds After DCP Calls for His Arrest Over Alleged Use of Goons

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has broken his silence following calls for his arrest by Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) deputy leader Cleophas Malala over claims of sponsoring goons to disrupt opposition activities.

Speaking during an interview at Mulembe Fm, Barasa dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.

He claimed that incidents involving hired gangs are often linked to opposition groups, particularly those outside government, rather than leaders in office.

The governor’s remarks come shortly after Malala formally wrote to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, urging police to take action against Barasa.

In the letter dated Wednesday, June 17, Malala accused the county boss of orchestrating violence through organized criminal gangs allegedly deployed to intimidate critics and disrupt rival political gatherings.

Malala further claimed that evidence connecting the governor to the alleged acts had been gathered from victims as well as individuals said to be part of the groups behind the attacks.

The accusations have sparked a fresh political standoff, with both sides trading blame over rising tensions and insecurity during political events in the region.