Is Peter Salasya finally on the mend?
Peter Kalerwa Salasya, commonly known as PK Salasya, has recently been under the public spotlight due to his unconventional approach to resolving conflicts with his opponents.
First elected during the 2022 general elections, he has gained notoriety for his willingness to engage in confrontations with his detractors.
However, his combative demeanor and responses have not endeared him to the public, especially considering his position as a public official.
Born on January 15, 1989, the outspoken Member of Parliament (MP) for Mumias East has been caught on numerous occasions engaging in altercations with constituents and fellow leaders, even at solemn events such as burial ceremonies.
He extends his confrontational style to the online sphere, where he boasts a significant and growing following.
In 2023, he found himself at odds with Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, a dispute that sparked tensions among their respective supporters.
Salasya was elected under the Democratic Action Party – Kenya (DAP-K), representing Mumias East, one of the constituencies in Kakamega County.
According to Salasya, his strained relationship with the Governor stemmed from the neglect of his constituency in terms of development initiatives.
“Kakamega was making a lot of noise, and I was the one causing it,” the lawmaker quipped during a gathering on Sunday, March 31, 2024, at the homecoming ceremony of MP Nabii Nabwera Daraja, also attended by the National Speaker, Moses Wetangula.
Salasya claimed that the differences between him and Governor Barasa were resolved after the county leader agreed to his demands.
His primary grievance was the lack of attention to improving healthcare services in Mumias East.
“The Governor agreed to build hospitals for me. Now, I am considered a good chap,” the MP remarked amidst laughter.
Expressing his skepticism towards the concept of unity among leaders, Salasya emphasized that a truly commendable leader is one who actively advocates for the growth and development of their constituents.
“I often hear people talking about unity among Luhya leaders, but I do not subscribe to that notion,” he stated, adding, “A respected leader is one who prioritizes development for the Luhya community”.
Salasya criticised leaders in the Western Region of Kenya who seek personal audiences with higher-ranking officials solely to further their own interests rather than focusing on development initiatives for their constituents.
Addressing the escalating feud between National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula and Trans Nzoia
Governor George Natembeya, Salasya claimed to have a solution.
“The commotion in Trans Nzoia is minimal, and I can resolve it,” he asserted.
“The root of the problem lies with Didmus Barasa (Kimilili MP). Natembeya hears Didmus insulting Eugene Wamalwa, then follows suit by disparaging Papa Wa Roma (referring to Moses Wetangula),” he explained.
Eugene Wamalwa, is former Defense Cabinet Secretary, leads DAP-K, while “Papa Wa Roma” is a nickname for Moses Wetangula.
Salasya urged Didmus Barasa to cease his verbal attacks on Eugene Wamalwa and instead focus on serving his constituents.
The ongoing discord between Mr Wetangula and Governor Natembeya erupted into violence recently when their supporters clashed at a burial ceremony in Trans Nzoia County.
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