Police Investigate Aisha Jumwa for Allegedly Slapping Fellow Woman Politician at a Funeral
Kenya Roads Board (KeRRA) Chairperson Aisha Jumwa could face legal consequences following allegations that she assaulted National Government Affirmative Action Director Ruth Bendera during a public engagement in Kaloleni, Kilifi County.
According to reports, Bendera lodged a formal complaint with law enforcement after Jumwa allegedly slapped her during the incident. The complaint was officially filed on Saturday, November 15, at the Kilifi Police Station, Kilifi Sub-County Police Commander Stanley Tanui confirmed.
The alleged attack has sparked outrage among local residents, with many condemning what they described as Jumwa’s history of misconduct at public events, including funerals.
“We, as the youth, will not tolerate a leader who is all about violence. We condemn the actions,” one local resident said. 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 has attributed Jumwa’s hostility to political differences ahead of the 2027 elections. The two politicians reportedly enjoyed a cordial relationship in the past, which soured after Bendera’s former Cabinet Secretary role coincided with Jumwa’s appointment as non-executive chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board.
In a Gazette notice dated January 17, President William Ruto confirmed Jumwa’s three-year term in the position, with analysts suggesting that the appointment was intended as a strategic reward for her loyalty to the Kenya Kwanza government.
Bendera, who is reportedly considering a bid for the Kilifi Woman Representative seat in 2027, has publicly criticized Jumwa for perceived betrayal, claiming she had invested significant political support in Jumwa’s rise.
Earlier this month, a video circulated showing Bendera addressing residents in Kilifi County, where she openly challenged Jumwa’s role in her appointment. “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 said, addressing Jumwa directly.
She added, “Despite everything, you only handed me a job as a board member earning Ksh10,500 instead of a Nominated Senator position as agreed.”
As investigations continue, the Kilifi County community and political observers are closely monitoring developments, with calls for accountability and a fair resolution to the dispute.
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Police Investigate Aisha Jumwa for Allegedly Slapping Fellow Woman Politician at a Funeral