A viral social media post has stirred controversy in Kenya after a graphic allegedly quoting Mumias East MP Peter Salasya claimed that most members of the county assembly (MCAs) in Kakamega and Bungoma cannot speak English and that their salaries should not exceed KSh20,000 (about US$153).
The quote, widely circulated online and written in Kiswahili, reads: “Ninyi mnashangaa na Kericho MCAs? Njoo Kakamega na Bungoma County muone maajabu. Wengi wa hawa MCAs hata hawawezi kuzungumza neno moja la Kiingereza. Assembly proceedings wanatumia Kiluhya. Kwa maoni yangu, mshahara wa MCA usipite KSh20,000.”
In English, it translates to: “You people should not be surprised by Kericho MCAs? Come to Kakamega and Bungoma County and see wonders. Most of these MCAs cannot even speak a single word of English. In assembly proceedings, they use the Luhya language. In my opinion, an MCA’s salary should not exceed KSh20,000.”
The post quickly gained traction on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), with users sharing and debating the controversial remarks. Many Kenyans condemned the statement as disrespectful to local leaders, while others defended Salasya’s alleged comments as a reflection of the quality of grassroots politics in some counties.
Peter Salasya, known for his populist style and unfiltered statements, often attracts national attention for his candid social media posts and outspoken criticism of political institutions. As a first-term MP representing Mumias East in Kakamega County, he has built a reputation for blending humour with political commentary that resonates with many ordinary citizens.
However, such a statement if indeed made by him would likely ignite backlash from MCAs and leaders in western Kenya, particularly in Kakamega and Bungoma, where local assemblies play a key role in regional governance. Critics argue that belittling elected leaders undermines public confidence in devolution and disrespects voters’ choices.
The viral post has been shared across multiple platforms, generating heated discussions about language proficiency, education standards among elected officials, and the broader question of what qualifications truly matter in leadership.
As of now, no official clarification has been issued by Peter Salasya or his office regarding the authenticity of the viral quote. Whether the MP actually made the remarks or not, the incident has once again placed him at the centre of Kenya’s social media spotlight reinforcing his reputation as one of the country’s most polarising and talked-about young politicians.
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