Bungoma County leaders have condemned the murder of prominent Kimilili business man and Jubilee coordinator in Kibingei Ward Edward Barasa. Area leaders led by Jubilee parliamentary aspirant Didmus Wekesa Barasa condemned the incident and called for a speedy investigation into the matter saying it is unfortunate that somebody can be killed in cold blood because of his political affiliation.
He said police must ensure the attackers are brought to book within twenty-four hours saying it is unfortunate that they took so long to reach the home of the victim yet the police camp is near and they were informed early about the attack.
His sentiments were echoed by Bungoma County Governor Ken Lusaka who said everyone has a democratic freedom to be associated with any political party of his choice and it is sad that he was murdered in such a manner.
He said it is alleged some local politician hadn’t been in good terms with the late Edward Barasa, adding that he must be interrogated by the security apparatus to shed more light on the death
Water and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa also expressed his condolences to the family of the late Edward saying quick investigations into the matter must be carried out to ensure the culprits are brought to book.
A sombre mood engulfed the area after the shocking incident. The late Edward Barasa’s son, Eric Wafula, said they were sleeping in their house together with his sisters and were attacked at around 11 pm by the assailants who gained access into the house by breaking in through a window.
He said they were armed with machetes and an AK47 gun and raped one of his sisters. They had communicated to their father who rushed home in response to their distress call but unfortunately was shot and died.
“The police arrived an hour later after the attackers had left despite their camp being only two kilometres away from our home, it is so painful that we have lost our father whom we all depended on,” he said
He sustained gunshot wounds and is being treated at dreamland mission hospital where the doctors said he is in stable condition.
The body of the late Edward was taken to dreamland hospital mortuary.