Bungoma gubernatorial aspirant Zackariah Barasa has sharply criticized local police over their handling of a recent spate of robberies at Sang’alo market, where at least one night guard was killed and several others critically injured.
Speaking during a public address at the market on Tuesday, Barasa accused security officers of misplaced priorities, claiming they act swiftly against small-scale chang’aa brewers but respond sluggishly to violent crimes affecting residents.
“If it was a mama mboga selling local brew, the police would be so quick to arrest her but not respond to the cries of dying citizens,” Barasa said.
The incident, which occurred over the weekend (around April 5, 2026), saw suspected robbers attack night security guards at Sang’alo market, resulting in fatalities and injuries amid a wave of insecurity in the area.
Angry residents have protested at the local police station, demanding action and the transfer of officers accused of overstaying in the station.
Barasa vowed to push for the transfer of the current security officers and the deployment of new ones to restore confidence and sanity in the region.
The outspoken political activist, who is aligned with the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), also took aim at local leaders, accusing them of neglecting residents’ security needs while engaging in what he described as economic sabotage, including the sale or leasing of key local industries.
“When you elect me as your Governor, my first stop will be at Nzoia Sugar company to eject Rai, the current owner of the industry,” Barasa declared.
Businessman Jaswant Rai’s firm secured a 30-year lease to operate the struggling Nzoia Sugar Factory in Bungoma, with significant investment into reviving the miller.
Barasa’s remarks came as part of an intensified “meet-the-people” tour across Bungoma’s Kanduyi, Webuye West, and Webuye East constituencies.
He used the platform to promise decisive leadership that would prioritize security, revive local industries, and address long-standing grievances if elected in the 2027 gubernatorial race.
The aspirant, a businessman and auctioneer previously backed by DAP-K under former Defence CS Eugene Wamalwa, has re-emerged strongly in Bungoma politics after a brief hiatus that led some opponents to speculate he had exited the race. Barasa has made it clear he will be on the ballot to contest for the county’s top seat.
His comments reflect growing public frustration over insecurity in parts of Bungoma, with residents at Sang’alo market calling for better policing and accountability. Police have visited the scene and pledged investigations, but calls for transfers and enhanced patrols continue.
Barasa’s tour and bold statements are expected to shake up the unfolding 2027 gubernatorial contest in Bungoma, where several prominent figures have already signaled interest in the seat currently held by Governor Kenneth Lusaka.
The developments come amid broader concerns over crime in market areas and debates on the management of strategic county assets like Nzoia Sugar.