- Umulkheir Harun (ODM) has issued an apology after a viral video captured her engaging in a physical altercation with Falhada Iman (EALA, UDA).
- The altercation, which occurred within Parliament grounds, showed the MPs exchanging blows, with a male colleague cheering them on.
- The cause of the confrontation remains unclear, but Umulkheir hinted that long-standing differences may have contributed to the incident.
- Public outrage followed, with many netizens criticizing the MPs’ unprofessional conduct, especially within the Parliament.
Nominated MP Umulkheir Harun (ODM) has publicly apologized for her involvement in a physical altercation with Falhada Iman, an East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP. The confrontation, which was caught on camera, showed the two MPs exchanging punches within the Parliament precincts. The video quickly went viral, sparking widespread condemnation.
In a statement following the incident, Umulkheir referred to the altercation as an ‘unfortunate incident’ and expressed her deep regret. “I sincerely regret this occurrence and want to emphasise that I do not endorse or encourage any form of misconduct. I remain fully committed to upholding the respectful and dignified standards expected of our institution and of myself, particularly as a Muslim woman,” Umulkheir stated.
The Video and Public Reaction
The video footage shows the two MPs engaged in a physical fight, with a male colleague seen cheering them on. As the confrontation unfolded, three women and a parliamentary orderly intervened in an attempt to break up the fight. A female voice is also heard urging people to stop recording, saying, “Wacha kutupiga picha” (loosely translated as “stop recording”).
This unprofessional behavior within the Parliament grounds has led to an outcry online, with many social media users condemning the MPs’ actions. “They have no manners. The speaker should suspend them with immediate effect,” said X user Abdi Ali. Another user questioned the MPs’ ability to legislate on crucial matters, such as Artificial Intelligence and youth opportunities, asking, “Are they the ones to legislate on the digital economy and university funding model?”
Possible Causes and Political Implications
Although the exact cause of the altercation remains unclear, Umulkheir suggested that it may stem from long-standing differences with Falhada Iman. She explained that she felt ambushed by Iman, who she claimed had been critical of her work in the past.
While the incident has been widely criticized, Falhada Iman has yet to publicly comment on the altercation. Meanwhile, Umulkheir has reported the matter to the police and is awaiting further investigation and action.
The Political Background
Both Umulkheir Harun and Falhada Iman come from Garissa County, and their political affiliations further complicate the situation. Umulkheir is a nominee of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), while Falhada was elected to EALA on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. Given their differing party affiliations, there are speculations that this confrontation may be part of a deeper political rivalry.
The incident has cast a shadow over the 13th Parliament, as it underscores the tension and personal animosities that may exist within the political class. With public outrage growing, the speaker of the house may need to take action to restore order and discipline among MPs, as well as address concerns over their conduct.
