Aisha Jumwa is facing growing pressure in Kilifi after reportedly slapping Ruth Bendera during an engagement in Kaloleni, an incident that Bendera has already reported to the police.
The complaint was filed on Saturday, November 15, at the Kilifi Police Station, and Kilifi sub-county police commander Stanley Tanui has confirmed receiving it.
The case has immediately sparked anger among locals, many of whom accuse Jumwa of showing a pattern of bad conduct during public gatherings.
Youth in the area strongly criticised her behaviour, saying they will not accept leaders who turn to violence.
One resident said they condemn the action, while another described it as disrespectful because Bendera is a much smaller political figure compared to Jumwa.
Bendera believes the hostility is driven by political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections. She explained that the two were once close but their relationship collapsed after Jumwa was appointed the non-executive chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board.
The appointment was announced through a Gazette notice dated January 17 and was widely seen as a strategic reward from President Ruto to secure Jumwa’s political support.
Since then, the two leaders have been on opposing sides, and Bendera says this has contributed to the friction.
Bendera is reportedly preparing to run for the Kilifi Woman Representative seat in 2027, a move that appears to have widened the gap between them.
She has previously accused Jumwa of betrayal despite her heavy involvement in supporting her political growth.
Earlier in November, a video from a Kilifi event showed Bendera speaking firmly in Jumwa’s presence. In the clip, she reminded Jumwa that she owed her nothing, saying she used her own resources and vehicles to campaign for her.
She added that after everything she invested, she was only given a board position earning KSh10,500 instead of the Nominated Senator role they had agreed on.
These statements have intensified the political tension, and the alleged assault has now become part of a broader conflict involving their past alliance, current rivalry, and future ambitions.
Leave feedback about this