By Andrew Kariuki

Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda Busihile has filed a case in court seeking to stop Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa from making what she describes as defamatory remarks about her.

In an application lodged at the Milimani Magistrate’s Court, Muhanda, through her lawyer Danstan Omari, argues that the governor has been making repeated public statements that have negatively affected her reputation and standing.

The application, dated April 10, 2026, has been marked as urgent, with the legislator asking the court to intervene immediately to prevent further damage.

Court documents indicate that Muhanda accuses the governor of making public claims portraying her as unfit for office, allegations she firmly denies. She says the statements were made in public gatherings and media platforms, exposing her to criticism and ridicule.

In her affidavit, the MP maintains that she has consistently carried out her duties diligently since taking office in 2022 and insists the claims against her are baseless and intended to tarnish her image.

She further contends that the remarks are politically driven and aimed at weakening her position ahead of the 2027 elections, in which she is expected to vie for the Kakamega gubernatorial seat.

Muhanda is seeking court orders to bar the governor and anyone acting on his behalf from continuing to publish or circulate the alleged defamatory statements.

She is also asking the court to compel him to retract the remarks, issue a public apology, and remove any related content already shared.

Additionally, the legislator is seeking Ksh 18 million in damages for defamation, along with the costs of the case.

She argues that without court intervention, the continued circulation of the statements will cause lasting harm that cannot be remedied through compensation alone.

The matter is now awaiting directions from the court on the way forward.