Suspect in murder of Kisa East MCA arrested

Kisa East MCA Stephen Maloba was stabbed on Saturday during a political event organised by Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka. [File, Standard]

Police have arrested the main suspect in the murder of Kisa East MCA Stephen Maloba.

Maloba was stabbed on Saturday during a political event organised by Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka.

On Tuesday, April 4, ward reps held peaceful demonstrations against the killing.

Speaking to The Standard, Kakamega County Police Commander Joseph Kigen said they were pursuing more suspects.

"We will not reveal his identity as there is tension in the community. Revealing his identity could lead to retaliatory attacks," he said.

Western Regional Police Commander Kiprono Langat urged residents to remain calm and assured MCAs and residents of their security.

"We assure the MCA's family, Kisa East residents and MCAs that by Friday, we will have concluded this matter and justice served," said Langat.

On Sunday, angry residents torched the house of Emasatsi Chief Walter Obuchere, killed three cows before storming Emasatsi Police Station. They also stole 1,240 bags of fertilisers from the County Government of Kakamega.

MCAs on Tuesday, April 4, marched to the regional police headquarters in Kakamega town and demanded the arrest of all people involved in the killing. They also demanded the arrest of the Khwisero MP.

Kakamega County Assembly Speaker James Namatsi called on the Salaries and Remuneration Commission to increase MCAs' pay.

"We want MCAs to get good pay and the government to give them bodyguards so that they can freely serve their people," he said.

The speaker also called on police to speed up investigations into the murder of Maloba.

Ngara MCA Chege Mwaura petitioned the government to ensure all ward representatives are protected.