Political wrangles led to my hubby's death, widow says

Rael Angeso, the widow of Kisa East nominated MCA Stephen Maloba on Tuesday said a political altercation led to her husband's death.

Before Justice Chirchir Chebet at the Kakamega law courts, Angeso said her husband had often shared with her his differences with some local leaders, arising from his refusal to provide a job to their preferred candidate.

"A politician wanted my husband to appoint their opponent as a manager, but he disagreed, leading to a dispute," she said.

Angeso said Maloba had committed to his supporters by promising them various positions upon winning the MCA seat, making it challenging for Maloba to concede some positions to opponents.

She said the politician frequently manipulated statements in meetings, such as claiming, "Kama Maloba amekataa kupeana kiti yake imeisha. Hatakua MCA Kisa East" (If Maloba refuses to give up his seat, it's over. He won't be MCA for Kisa East).

On the day of her husband's death, he attended a meeting organised by the politician while Angeso headed to the farm. Despite the event being nearby, she heard teargas at the farm and later received a call informing her of her husband's stabbing.

She rushed to the scene, only to be denied access to the minor theatre room where her husband was being treated. Despite her efforts to explain, she was allowed in only after her husband had died.

She said she saw a pool of blood and Maloba had a deep cut on his arm. 

The MCA's driver, Phaustin Misango, testified that he was attacked first, with his phone destroyed, while on duty assessing if the meeting had started.

Patrick Butchich said he saw the accused, Richard Likoye, stabbing Makoba, adding that he was beaten and police did not intervene.

The case is set to be mentioned on February 29 next year for additional witness testimonies.