The County Assembly of Bungoma and the wider community of Chwele Kabuchai Ward are in mourning following the passing of Hon. James Barasa Mukhongo, the long-serving Member of County Assembly (MCA) for the area.
Hon. Mukhongo, a stalwart of the Ford-Kenya party, died on Monday while receiving treatment at Hopkins Crescent Hospital in Bungoma. He had reportedly been battling an undisclosed illness, with earlier reports indicating signs of recovery. His sudden demise has therefore come as a deep shock to colleagues, constituents, and the larger political fraternity.
Hon. Mukhongo had been serving his third consecutive term in the Bungoma County Assembly, having been first elected in the 2013 General Elections. He was widely respected for his steadfast leadership, dedication to public service, and deep connection to the people of Chwele Kabuchai Ward.
Speaker of the County Assembly, Hon. Emmanuel M. Situma, confirmed the death in an official statement, expressing sorrow and extending condolences on behalf of the entire County Assembly. “The County Assembly of Bungoma fraternity is deeply saddened to announce the untimely passing of Hon. James Barasa Mukhongo. He will be fondly remembered for his firm and principled stand on matters of governance and his relentless advocacy for the rights of the people of Chwele Kabuchai Ward,” said Situma.
Mukhongo was currently serving as Chairperson of the Finance and Planning Committee, a role he held across multiple terms with notable distinction. His leadership journey in the Assembly included stints as Chief Whip for the Majority Party and active membership in numerous key committees, including those on Lands, Urban and Physical Planning; Environment, Water and Natural Resources; House Business; Appointments; and Powers and Privileges.
His political career, however, predates devolution. He was nominated as a councillor by the Ford-Kenya Party in 2002 and later elected in 2007, before transitioning to the devolved system under the 2010 Constitution.
National Assembly Speaker and Ford-Kenya Party leader Moses Wetang’ula led the tributes, confirming the news on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle:
“It’s with great pain and unimaginable sadness and loss that I announce the passing on of my MCA Hon. James Barasa Mukhongo of Chwele Kabuchai Ward. Elected without a break for a record five terms, Barasa was Ch FK Kabuchai. RIP Baba,” he wrote.
Indeed, Hon. Mukhongo’s political longevity is a testament to his enduring popularity and unwavering commitment to grassroots representation. His advocacy for Chwele market traders and community development projects endeared him to many, as did his lively participation in the County Assembly’s football team, where he was a passionate player off the political stage.
Across Bungoma County, residents, youth groups, and community leaders have been sharing emotional tributes. One local group described him as “a true servant of the people, a pillar in our community, and a voice for the voiceless.”
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course. Meanwhile, flags at the County Assembly are flying at half-mast in honor of the departed legislator.
Hon. James Barasa Mukhongo leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the people he so faithfully served. He will be deeply missed.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Written By Rodney Mbua
