Chaos in Busia as UDA MP Heckled Over Raila Remarks During Funeral Speech

A funeral in Busia turned tense when mourners erupted in loud boos, cutting short UDA MP Mary Emaase’s attempt to rally support for the broad-based government. What was meant to be a solemn moment quickly spiralled into a political showdown.

In a video circulating online, the MP began her speech by encouraging locals to prepare for the incoming government, subtly referencing the 2027 elections. But it was her mention of Raila Odinga that triggered the backlash. “Baba amepeana ushauri,” she said, only to be met with chants of “Aende!” and “Eeeh!” from an increasingly hostile crowd. As jeers drowned her voice, she struggled to regain control, offering condolences and a contribution of Sh10,000 to the bereaved family.

Despite the gesture, the mood remained volatile, forcing her to end her address abruptly. Even her microphone couldn’t pierce through the crowd’s disapproval.

The incident comes amid growing resistance to attempts by UDA leaders to popularise a broad-based government concept in opposition strongholds. Busia, a known ODM bastion, has often pushed back against leaders perceived to undermine Raila Odinga.

It also follows recent remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who dismissed Raila’s influence heading into 2027, branding him politically irrelevant. Gachagua urged Kenyans to wait for the next general election to remove Ruto from power, stating that dialogue has failed and only the ballot remains.

The confrontation in Busia raises questions about UDA’s strategy to penetrate ODM zones and whether Raila’s support is truly waning. With political temperatures rising and the crowd's reaction captured on video, it remains unclear whether such grassroots resistance is a one-off or a sign of deeper cracks in Kenya’s shifting political landscape.