Concern Emerges Over Controversial MPs Nominated for State Honours on Mashujaa Day
A heated debate has erupted after concern emerged over controversial MPs nominated for State honours ahead of the 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations. Kenyans have until Monday, October 13, 2025, to submit their views or objections to Parliament regarding the nominations.
Public Debate Over the Nomination List
The publication of 60 names by Parliament, including 46 legislators — 35 Members of the National Assembly and 11 Senators — has sparked questions about merit and credibility. The Parliamentary Honours Advisory Committee is behind the nominations.
Those listed include Tiaty MP William Kamket Kassait, Kimilili MP Didmus Wekesa Barasa, Mt. Elgon MP Fred Kapondi Chesebe, and Sirisia MP John Walukhe Koy, all of whom have faced controversies or court cases in the past.
Background of the Controversial MPs
Security agencies have questioned Kamket over insecurity in the North Rift. In 2022, the court acquitted Barasa due to lack of evidence in a case where he had been accused of shooting a political rival’s aide.
The Court of Appeal cleared Walukhe after overturning a previous fraud conviction, and authorities once arrested and charged Kapondi with incitement to violence before releasing him.
Legal Criteria for Honours
Under the National Honours Act, recipients must have made an exemplary contribution to Kenya’s public service or demonstrated outstanding performance in sectors such as governance, science, sports, journalism, or business.
Kenyans React Online
Public backlash has grown on social media. On Facebook, Pastor Felix Destiny Okaalo questioned:
“Is it a must for politicians to be honoured? What have these three guys done to deserve this precious honour? In Kenya, jokes are too much.”
Public Input Deadline
The Parliamentary Honours Advisory Committee has invited the public to submit objections or feedback via honours@parliament.go.ke before 5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 13, 2025.
