Wamuzi News Ke
In a blistering political confrontation early today, Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot launched a searing attack on Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Speaking at a function in Kanduyi, Bungoma County on Saturday morning, Cheruiyot aggressively criticised Sifuna’s moral standing and political credibility, while expressing gratitude to Kanduyi residents for what he says was their astute judgment in the 2017 polls.
In a highly charged tone, Cheruiyot recalled that Sifuna came to Kanduyi in 2017 and managed to secure just 50 votes, a figure he proclaimed as definitive proof that locals saw through Sifuna’s character long before most others did. “You gave him 50 votes only. You knew his heart was bad,” Cheruiyot declared, mocking Sifuna’s right to lecture the country on development.
Cheruiyot did not pull punches. Accusing Sifuna of dismissing vital infrastructure projects such as roads and hospitals, he warned constituents against being swayed by what he described as divisive rhetoric. He insisted that Sifuna’s criticisms suggested citizens oppose progress — a claim Cheruiyot dismantled point‑by‑point with rhetorical force.
Turning to national politics, Cheruiyot also attacked Sifuna’s recent challenge of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, questioning whether Sifuna was even on the same level as the seasoned parliamentary chair. “He claims to criticise Speaker Wetang’ula—does he even match him?” Cheruiyot mocked rhetorically, reinforcing his view that Sifuna has no moral basis to lead opposition critique.
Political Fallout and Reaction
The exchange comes amid heightened tension over the fallout from the March 7, 2025 MoU between President William Ruto and Raila Odinga. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has openly rejected what he terms a “monster” government, claiming the deal between UDA and ODM collapsed following violations including police brutality anniversary protests and the death of Albert Ojwang. Sifuna further refused participation in an ODM internal review team, prompting backlash even from within his own party.
Cheruiyot’s salvo is widely seen as an attempt to pinpoint Sifuna’s past local rejection as a litmus test for his political integrity. By thanking Kanduyi residents for rejecting Sifuna “early enough,” Cheruiyot positioned himself as both champion of local wisdom and guardian of the national development agenda.
What’s at Stake
At the heart of the scandalous showdown is not just political rivalry but deeper questions of legitimacy and leadership. Cheruiyot’s message resonates with a populist appeal to local accountability: voters in Kanduyi reportedly made the correct decision in 2017, rejecting someone he now labels as disingenuous and divisive. With the next elections on the horizon, the clash could reshape narratives around credibility and grassroots representation.
Political analysts predict this verbal escalation may fracture alliances within the ODM-leaning electorate and bolster UDA’s messaging around development pragmatism versus ideological posturing.
