A young woman from Chwele, Bungoma County, has attracted widespread political support after holding onto a tree for over 17 hours in a demonstration highlighting economic hardships faced by many families.
Identified as Naliaka, she was discovered by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and his delegation en route to a homecoming rally in Bungoma on Sunday, July 26. The group included several governors and members of parliament.
Political Leaders Rally Behind Naliaka
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, present at the scene, explained that Naliaka’s protest was driven by unemployment and poverty affecting her family. He pledged KSh 10,000 towards her cause and called on Senator Sifuna to intervene.
Sifuna invited Naliaka to end her protest, assuring her safety and expressing gratitude for her support of the Linda Mwananchi movement.
Fundraising Effort Raises Over KSh 120,000
Following the encounter, Sifuna spearheaded a rapid fundraising initiative that saw contributions from prominent politicians:
- Babu Owino: KSh 10,000
- Senator George Natembeya (Trans Nzoia): KSh 10,000
- Senator Godfrey Osotsi (Vihiga): KSh 5,000
- MP Majimbo Kalasinga: KSh 10,000
- Governor James Orengo (Siaya): KSh 10,000
- Senator Boni Khalwale (Kakamega): KSh 10,000
- MP Jack Wamboka (Bumula): KSh 10,000
- MCA Eric Wekesa: KSh 5,000
- Simiyu County contributor: KSh 1,000
- Brian (individual): KSh 10,000
- Former Governor Wycliffe Wangamati: KSh 10,000
- Eric Shiangaya: KSh 10,000
- Politician Zachariah Barasa (Bungoma): KSh 10,000
Additional donations came from residents and aspiring leaders present, pushing the total support beyond KSh 120,000.
Following the fundraising, Naliaka was escorted to Bungoma as part of the ongoing homecoming event, receiving protection from Sifuna’s security team.
