Residents of Bumula blocked the Mumias-Bungoma highway on Thursday, April 23, 2026, using tyres, stones, and logs to protest the suspension of their MP Jack Wamboka as chair of the Parliamentary Public Investments Committee (PIC) on Governance and Education. The blockade disrupted traffic between Bungoma and Kakamega counties amid claims of government targeting critics of President William Ruto.
Irate Bumula residents shut down the Mumias-Bungoma highway at Kabula market on Thursday, halting vehicles linking Bungoma and Kakamega counties. They used burnt tyres, tree stumps, large stones, and logs, with thick smoke rising as protesters chanted anti-government slogans like 'wantam'.
The demonstration followed the National Assembly's suspension of Bumula MP Jack Wanami Wamboka from chairing the PIC on Governance and Education the previous day (April 22). Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss Shollei had cited complaints from witnesses, including the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), alleging harassment, intimidation, and bribery demands to protect public trust during an ongoing inquiry.
Protesters accused the government of targeting MPs who challenge President William Ruto's policies. Videos shared online captured the chaotic scene and vocal opposition.
Minority Leader Junet Mohammed was directed to name an interim chairperson by April 23.
