Drama & After MP Jack Wamboka Refused to Shake Hands With Wetangula at Burudi Nabwera Requiem Mass

Political attention has shifted to Bumula Member of Parliament Jack Wamboka following reports that he declined to shake hands with National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula during the requiem mass for veteran politician Burudi Nabwera.

The solemn ceremony, held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, brought together political leaders, government officials, family members and friends to pay their last respects to the late diplomat and former Cabinet minister.

However, the alleged handshake incident has drawn attention against the backdrop of growing political differences among leaders from the Western Kenya region.

Wamboka has been associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement, which is linked to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other leaders critical of the current political establishment. Wetang’ula, meanwhile, remains a prominent figure in President William Ruto’s political camp.

The reported encounter has therefore raised questions about the extent to which political disagreements are influencing relationships among leaders, even during solemn occasions intended to honour the departed.

The gathering also attracted attention after Wetang’ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi reportedly left the church before Sifuna addressed mourners. Their departure became a subject of discussion, although it was not established that Sifuna’s presence prompted their exit.

During his address, Sifuna emphasised the importance of national unity and criticised the political divisions that continue to shape Kenya’s leadership landscape.

The developments come as political realignments gather momentum ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders increasingly taking positions on the future of the country’s political leadership.

For Western Kenya, the interactions among influential politicians have attracted particular interest as competing political camps seek to consolidate their support.

Nabwera, a respected diplomat and former Lugari MP, is scheduled to be laid to rest on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at his home in Sango Farm, Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County.

The alleged handshake snub remains unverified and should be confirmed before being presented as an established fact.

https://x.com/a_m_media_ke/status/2112983783922340151

Khamis_News feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com