Kakamega Woman Representative Demands £20 Million from Governor Over Defamation Claims
Kakamega, 11 April 2026
Political tensions in Kakamega County have escalated into a major legal battle as Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda seeks substantial damages from Governor Fernandes Barasa for allegedly calling her a drunkard and questioning her competence in public forums. The lawsuit, filed through prominent lawyer Danstan Omari, demands £20 million in compensation for what Muhanda claims are politically motivated attacks designed to undermine her ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race.
The Core Legal Claims
Muhanda’s lawsuit centres on allegations that Governor Barasa made defamatory statements portraying her as a drunkard and questioning her competence to hold public office [1][2]. The case was filed at the Milimani Law Courts on 10 April 2026, with Muhanda seeking KSh 18 million in general damages for libel and slander [1][2]. However, sources indicate conflicting figures regarding the total damages sought, with one report suggesting KSh 115 million when including claims against additional defendants [3]. The Woman Representative argues these statements have caused reputational harm, emotional distress, and damage to her political career [1][2].
Expanding Legal Battle
The legal dispute extends beyond the governor to include his wife, Professor Janet Kassily Barasa, and eight bloggers whom Muhanda accuses of orchestrating a malicious smear campaign [3]. According to court papers, Muhanda seeks KSh 10 million in damages from each of the eight bloggers: Fabian Musamia, Peter Angatia, Joel Eshkumo, Dennis Weche, Dan Makori, Kibwage, Janet Wasike, Melisa Awour, and Tario Shitiabai [3]. The lawsuit alleges these defendants published false statements linking Muhanda to alcohol abuse, immoral conduct involving young men at Amanda Resort in Kakamega, and the death of a polytechnic principal [3]. Muhanda’s legal team states: ‘The said publications falsely portray the plaintiff as an alcohol abuser and further allege that she has been engaging in immoral and exploitative conduct involving young men’ [3].
Counter-Claims and Political Motivations
The dispute took another turn on 8 April 2026, when Professor Janet Kassily Barasa, through her legal team at Lutta & Company Advocates, demanded a public apology from Muhanda over alleged defamatory remarks [4]. The First Lady accuses Muhanda of making ‘false and malicious’ statements during a mourning gathering on 5 April 2026 at the home of deceased Caroline Khamete Ambale, suggesting Professor Barasa had prior knowledge of the principal’s death and interfered with the body [4]. The lawyers argue these statements implied serious criminal conduct and were politically motivated, as Muhanda reportedly eyes the Kakamega gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election [4]. Gabriel Wesa is also named as a ‘joint tortfeasor’ for allegedly circulating a video of Muhanda’s remarks across social media platforms including TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp [4].
Legal Remedies and Timeline
Muhanda is seeking comprehensive legal remedies including urgent court orders to prevent Governor Barasa from repeating the alleged defamatory statements, a public apology with equal prominence, and deletion of any defamatory content already in circulation [1][2]. Her supporting affidavit claims the remarks are politically motivated and intended to undermine her influence ahead of the 2027 elections [1][2]. Meanwhile, Professor Barasa has issued a seven-day ultimatum for a public apology and retraction, warning that failure to comply will trigger court action [4]. The Woman Representative has expressed concern that without court intervention, the governor may continue making similar remarks at political rallies and public gatherings, potentially escalating damage to her reputation [1][2]. As both sides prepare for legal proceedings, the case highlights the increasingly contentious political landscape in Kakamega County as the 2027 elections approach [GPT].