Police in Kilifi have officially opened investigations after Bendera accused Jumwa of slapping her during a funeral event in Kaloleni.
The matter, which was reported on Saturday, November 15, has attracted national attention because both women are influential figures in local and national politics.
According to Kilifi Sub-County Police Commander Stanley Tanui, Bendera visited the Kilifi Police Station and recorded a statement eTitle: Police Launch Probe Into Aisha Jumwa After Alleged Slap Incident in Kilifi
The political atmosphere in Kilifi County has become tense after a dramatic incident involving Kenya Roads Board Chairperson Aisha Jumwa and National Government Affirmative Action Director Ruth Bendera. Police in Kilifi have officially opened investigations after Bendera accused Jumwa of slapping her during a funeral event in Kaloleni. The matter, which was reported on Saturday, November 15, has attracted national attention because both women are influential figures in local and national politics.
According to Kilifi Sub-County Police Commander Stanley Tanui, Bendera visited the Kilifi Police Station and recorded a statement explaining what she says happened at the funeral. She claimed that Jumwa confronted her without warning and slapped her in front of other mourners. Police have confirmed that they are treating the matter seriously and will follow due process to determine whether charges should be filed.
The incident has sparked anger among residents of Kilifi, especially youths who say they are tired of leaders causing chaos at public events. One young resident said they expect better behaviour from leaders who are supposed to guide the community. He said that violence should not be used to settle political disagreements. Another local resident added that Bendera is a smaller political figure compared to Jumwa, and therefore the alleged assault was not only wrong but also disrespectful. Many people have taken to social media to condemn the behaviour and demand accountability.
Bendera believes that her conflict with Jumwa is linked to politics ahead of the 2027 elections. The two leaders were once close allies, but their relationship changed after Jumwa was appointed non-executive chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board in January. President William Ruto appointed her to the position for a three-year term, a move that many saw as a reward for her continued support of the Kenya Kwanza government. Since then, political differences between the two women have grown.
Bendera has publicly accused Jumwa of betraying her despite all the support she offered during earlier campaigns. She has also expressed her intention to run for the Kilifi Woman Representative seat in the 2027 general election, a seat that Jumwa once held. Because of this, many people believe that the rivalry between them is only becoming stronger as elections approach.
Just a few weeks ago, a video of Bendera speaking in Kilifi went viral. In the video, she told Jumwa not to claim that she gave her a job. Bendera said she worked hard during campaigns and used her own resources to support Jumwa. She also complained that she was only given a board member position that paid Ksh10,500, instead of the Nominated Senator position she expected. Her remarks showed clearly that their working relationship had broken down.
The latest incident has now brought the private tension into the public eye. If the police investigation finds enough evidence, Jumwa could face legal action, which would become a serious issue for her political career. Many Kenyans are watching closely because assault cases involving senior leaders often raise questions about discipline, integrity, and respect for public office.
For now, the police in Kilifi have said they will continue recording statements from witnesses who were present. They have also encouraged anyone with information to come forward so that the investigation can be thorough and fair.
The situation has also opened a bigger conversation about the behaviour of public officials.
Many Kenyans feel that leaders should set an example by handling disagreements in a peaceful and respectful manner. As the investigation continues, the people of Kilifi and the wider country will be waiting to see how the case develops and whether justice will be served explaining what she says happened at the funeral.
She claimed that Jumwa confronted her without warning and slapped her in front of other mourners.
Police have confirmed that they are treating the matter seriously and will follow due process to determine whether charges should be filed.
The incident has sparked anger among residents of Kilifi, especially youths who say they are tired of leaders causing chaos at public events.
One young resident said they expect better behaviour from leaders who are supposed to guide the community. He said that violence should not be used to settle political disagreements.
Another local resident added that Bendera is a smaller political figure compared to Jumwa, and therefore the alleged assault was not only wrong but also disrespectful.
Many people have taken to social media to condemn the behaviour and demand accountability.
Bendera believes that her conflict with Jumwa is linked to politics ahead of the 2027 elections. The two leaders were once close allies, but their relationship changed after Jumwa was appointed non-executive chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board in January.
President William Ruto appointed her to the position for a three-year term, a move that many saw as a reward for her continued support of the Kenya Kwanza government. Since then, political differences between the two women have grown.
Bendera has publicly accused Jumwa of betraying her despite all the support she offered during earlier campaigns.
She has also expressed her intention to run for the Kilifi Woman Representative seat in the 2027 general election, a seat that Jumwa once held.
Because of this, many people believe that the rivalry between them is only becoming stronger as elections approach.
Just a few weeks ago, a video of Bendera speaking in Kilifi went viral. In the video, she told Jumwa not to claim that she gave her a job. Bendera said she worked hard during campaigns and used her own resources to support Jumwa.
She also complained that she was only given a board member position that paid Ksh10,500, instead of the Nominated Senator position she expected. Her remarks showed clearly that their working relationship had broken down.
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