The Bungoma County Assembly is in mourning following the death of Hon. James Barasa Mukhongo, the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Chwele-Kabuchai Ward, who passed away on Monday while receiving treatment at a hospital in Bungoma.

The late Mukhongo, a longtime public servant and respected leader within the Ford-Kenya party, was remembered by colleagues as a mentor, peacemaker, and a pillar of unity both in the Assembly and among his constituents.

Leading the tributes was Tuuti Marakaru MCA and Majority Leader Juma Nyongesa, who described the late Mukhongo as a close personal friend and urged the bereaved family to remain united during this difficult period.

“We have lost a dependable leader, a friend, and a man who loved his people deeply. Let the family and community come together as we prepare to give him a befitting farewell,” said Nyongesa.

Deputy Speaker Stephen Wamalwa (Mitua Soysambu Ward) echoed similar sentiments, noting that Mukhongo’s absence would be deeply felt across the Assembly.

Meshack Museveni, the MCA for Mukuyuni Ward in Kabuchai constituency, called on leaders and residents of Kabuchai to maintain peace. He stated that as the Ford-Kenya party, they have lost a staunch defender and promised cooperation with the local MCAs, just as they had been doing.

Tony Barasa (Lwandanyi Ward): “We’ve lost an icon and a mentor. He was instrumental in the Finance and Selection Committees. Fare thee well, Papa.”

Orize Wanjala Kundu (Siboti Ward): “He was a voice of reason, especially during disagreements. As Chair of the Finance Committee, his wisdom kept us grounded.”

Vitalis Wangila (Kabula Ward): “He was an honorable man. I admired his work ethic and aspired to be like him.”

Christine Mukhongo (Kimilili Ward): “He was our guide in the Assembly. As new members, we looked up to him. His absence will be felt deeply.”

Allan Nyongesa (Nominated Youth MCA): “On behalf of Bungoma youth, I offer our deepest condolences. He was a wise and inclusive leader.”

Catherine Kituyi (Nominated MCA): “To his children and family, may God give you strength. We mourn with you.”

Aggrey Mulongo (Kibingei Ward): “He was peaceful and loving. Let us honor his memory by avoiding any division during his send-off.”

Frankline Simotwo (Chepyuk Ward): “He served from his days as a councilor to an MCA. A true soldier of Ford-Kenya. We shall miss his leadership.”

Hon. Mukhongo was widely recognized for his deep commitment to community development and public service. A member of the Ford-Kenya party, he played a significant role in party structures and the advancement of devolution in Bungoma County.

As Chairperson of the Finance Committee, he oversaw key decisions in budgeting, resource allocation, and fiscal accountability earning respect even from political opponents.

Many MCAs described him as a unifier, who brought calm during tense moments and was often the voice of reason during deliberations in the House.

Funeral preparations are ongoing in Chwele, Kabuchai, where the late Mukhongo hailed from. The family, county leaders, and the Ford-Kenya party are working together to ensure that he is laid to rest with dignity and honor.

A detailed funeral program is expected to be released soon.