What began as a peaceful burial ceremony in Ngomeni, Mwingi North, turned into a political storm on Sunday after nominated ODM Senator Beth Syengo sparked outrage by openly backing President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid.
In a video that has gone viral captures the moment the mood of the crowd shifted. Syengo, speaking confidently at the podium, declared:
“If God has decided President William Ruto will get a second term in office, he must get it.”
That single statement was enough to trigger a wave of loud heckles, whistles, and jeers from a section of the mourners. Some visibly agitated attendees called her out, accusing her of hijacking the solemn event to campaign for a government many in the region feel has failed to deliver.
But Senator Syengo stood her ground, refusing to be cowed.
“Shouting and heckling won’t change anything,” she fired back at the crowd.
“I’ll allow you to finish heckling so that I can also complete my speech.”
In an even more contentious remark, she announced that together with the Kenya Kwanza team, they would return to Ngomeni soon for a boda boda empowerment fundraiser. She warned residents that those who resisted their message would miss out.
“If you are offered ready food or uncooked food, which would you take? As leaders allied to UDA, we will take the ready food first,” she concluded, alluding to government resources and empowerment initiatives.
Her remarks have ignited sharp criticism online, with many calling them insensitive and tone-deaf — especially coming from an ODM senator in a traditionally opposition-leaning area.
Political analysts say Syengo’s growing association with the ruling coalition could be a sign of an ongoing realignment in parts of Ukambani politics. However, critics argue that using funerals as campaign platforms is distasteful and disrespectful to grieving families.
Backlash has also emerged from within ODM circles, with some members calling for disciplinary action against the senator, accusing her of betraying the party’s ideals and siding with a regime they are meant to oppose.
As 2027 politics begin to rear their head, Senator Syengo’s remarks in Mwingi may just be a taste of the high-stakes drama set to unfold — even in the most unexpected of places.
