Bungoma Residents Turn Heat on Didmus Barasa Over Fraud Allegations, Demand Accountability

Residents of Bungoma County have taken to social media to question how Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa could effectively lead if elected governor, citing ongoing fraud allegations that they say pose a serious risk to the county’s finances.

Some residents have even urged National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to reconsider supporting Barasa’s gubernatorial bid, warning that he could “auction the county” if elected.

“Recently, he admitted to having conned a businesswoman out of Sh2 million, calling it a ‘soft loan.’ He is yet to repay it,” said a user on the Bungoma Digest Facebook page.

Speaker Wetang’ula, who is also the party leader of Ford Kenya, has long enjoyed political influence in Bungoma County, with the party remaining a dominant force in the region.

Another concerned resident called on Barasa to refund the money allegedly defrauded from the businesswoman, warning that continued inaction could lead to serious consequences.

The MP has reportedly failed to repay the Sh 2 million loan, despite growing public pressure.

“The businesswoman has pleaded with him on several occasions to repay the money. She is a God-fearing and humble woman. Even the EACC summoned him over the issue, but he ignored the summons. I urge the Kimilili MP to refund the money before it’s too late,” said the resident.

Sources indicate that Barasa allegedly used the disputed Sh2 million to help fund the purchase of a helicopter that was recently auctioned over unpaid legal fees totaling Sh4.4 million.

Despite publicly acknowledging the money as a “soft loan,” he has yet to repay it.

Legal sources further claim that Barasa has also failed to pay the advocates who have represented him over the years in various criminal and civil cases.

“These are lawyers who have defended him in multiple court battles. As an advocate, I know how painful it is when a client refuses to fulfill their financial obligations,” said a Nairobi-based lawyer.

According to political analysts, Ford Kenya risks losing the Bungoma gubernatorial seat if it proceeds with plans to hand Barasa a direct party ticket, given the growing backlash from local voters.