A dramatic confrontation between Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya and former Sports Cabinet Secretary Rashid Echesa unfolded at Shianda Market in Kakamega County on Sunday, highlighting growing political tensions in the region. The incident, which escalated into a public spectacle, has since spilled over to social media, with both leaders exchanging harsh words and accusations.
The altercation began when Echesa, addressing locals on development projects initiated by President William Ruto during his recent Western Kenya tour, was interrupted by Salasya’s arrival. A video of the incident shows Salasya exiting his vehicle and approaching Echesa, pointing fingers and heckling him. Echesa, unfazed, retorted, “I serve in the government of Kenya, my friend; respect me,” as the crowd watched in disbelief. The exchange grew increasingly heated, with onlookers divided, some urging Echesa to continue his speech while others watched in silence.
Following the incident, both leaders took to social media to air their grievances. Salasya downplayed Echesa’s influence in the region, stating that he was no longer intimidated by him. “I used to grow fearing Echesa. The fear has gone. Next, he won’t believe it,” Salasya wrote on his Facebook page. Echesa, on the other hand, criticized Salasya for disrespecting the public’s wishes, claiming that the locals had wanted to hear from him. “The people of Shianda Market demanded to hear from me, but instead of respecting their voices, their own MP, Hon. Salasya, chose to interrupt and cause chaos,” Echesa posted. He emphasized that leadership should prioritize listening to and serving the people, not silencing them.
This clash comes at a time when political leaders across Kenya are being urged to exercise tolerance and unity, especially with the 2027 General Elections on the horizon. The incident underscores the deep-seated rivalries and power struggles within the region’s political landscape, raising concerns about the potential for further divisions. As both leaders continue to trade barbs, the focus shifts to whether they can set aside their differences and prioritize the needs of their constituents over personal grievances.
