Kenya Roads Board Chairperson Aisha Jumwa faces a police probe after allegedly slapping National Government Affirmative Action Director Ruth Bendera during a funeral in Kaloleni, Kilifi County. The incident, reported on November 15, 2025, has sparked local condemnation amid political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections. Bendera filed a complaint, attributing the altercation to their falling out over past agreements.
The altercation occurred on Saturday, November 15, 2025, during a funeral engagement in Kaloleni, Kilifi County, where Aisha Jumwa, the non-executive chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board, reportedly slapped Ruth Bendera, the National Government Affirmative Action Director. Bendera, a former political ally of Jumwa, confronted her over an unfulfilled agreement, leading to the physical confrontation.
Kilifi sub-county police commander Stanley Tanui confirmed the complaint was filed at Kilifi Police Station on the same day. Jumwa could face legal action for the alleged assault. The incident has caused unrest in the area, with locals criticizing Jumwa's conduct, particularly at funerals. One resident stated, "We, as the youth, will not tolerate a leader who is all about violence. We condemn the actions." Another added, "We condemn the actions of Aisha on Bendera; she was a bad example, and Bendera is such a small person politically compared to her. That is not respectful."
Bendera linked the hostility to their deteriorating relationship, influenced by differing political views ahead of the 2027 elections. She is reportedly seeking the Kilifi Woman Representative seat. The two had a previously cordial alliance, but tensions rose after Jumwa's appointment by President William Ruto on January 17, 2025, as Kenya Roads Board chairperson for a three-year term—a move seen as rewarding her support for the Kenya Kwanza government.
Earlier in November 2025, a video surfaced of Bendera addressing the issue publicly in Kilifi County. She said, "My sister Aisha Jumwa, don't go announcing that you gave me a job. We owe each other nothing. I used my resources and cars to campaign for you, and you got a job in the Ministry." Bendera further claimed, "Despite everything, you only handed me a job as a board member earning Ksh10,500 instead of a Nominated Senator position as agreed," accusing Jumwa of betrayal despite her past investments in Jumwa's political rise.