Likuyani Digest | Ground Reality
Does Chapurukha Understand the Constitution?
Nzoia Ward MCA Collins Sifuna Chapurukha is facing sharp criticism after remarks he made on Sunday, 11th October 2026, during a church service at St. Marks Catholic Church in Nzoia, Matunda, where President William Ruto was present.
Addressing the congregation, Chapurukha said:
“Mimi nimetembea nchi mingi sana, nimetembea Sudan, Tanzania na opposition leaders wote wako jela. Lakini hapa opposition wanaongea vile wanataka, yaani wako huru sana.”
The statement has been widely interpreted as suggesting that the freedom of opposition leaders to speak in Kenya is unusual or a special favour, rather than a basic constitutional right.
Critics have questioned whether the MCA understands the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees freedom of expression, association and political participation. In a democracy, opposition leaders are not supposed to be in jail for holding different political views.
Ironically, Chapurukha himself was previously arrested after leading a protest in Matunda town over insecurity. He was later released. That episode demonstrated that even a sitting MCA can be arrested and still enjoy due process — the same system he now appears to belittle when comparing Kenya to countries where opposition figures are jailed.
What has angered many residents further is that, with the President present in Matunda, the MCA did not use the opportunity to raise urgent local issues such as the high insecurity in Matunda and Nzoia Ward, or the poor state of roads in the area. Instead, he focused on praising the freedom of the opposition.
Questions on the ground:
Does Chapurukha understand that freedom of expression is a constitutional right, not a government favour?
Why compare Kenya to countries where opposition leaders are jailed?
With the President present, why did he not raise Matunda’s insecurity and bad roads?
Is this the leadership Nzoia Ward deserves?
Stay informed. Stay ahead.
Comments