Drama unfolded within the precincts of Parliament when two female legislators fought on Tuesday, April 8.
The two lawmakers involved in the scuffle have been identified as Umulkheir Harun, a nominated member of Parliament under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, and Falhada Iman, who serves as a representative in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) under UDA.
The scuffle, which unfolded in full view, has been widely condemned as unbecoming and dishonourable conduct from elected leaders.
It is not clear what prompted the drama involving the two women who come from Wajir.
A yet to be identified man could be heard in the background of the viral video telling other onlookers not to intervene, urging them to “let them fight.” At one point, one of the legislators is audibly heard pleading with him not to take pictures or record the incident, to which he responds casually that it is already being livestreamed.
The tense moment continued to escalate until a group of female lawmakers rushed to the scene in an attempt to break up the fight. Eventually, order was restored after a Parliament sergeant-at-arms stepped in to defuse the situation and take the leaders away from the fracas.
It was captured by a fellow Member of Parliament who was present.
The MP later shared the same online.
It attracted backlash on social media, with users from across the political divide condemning the incident.
The two are heard lashing out at each other as other female MPs are seen trying to separate the two in vain.
One of the MPs trying to separate the two is then heard calling for help from other legislators who were watching from a distance.
Another is heard asking on-looking MPs to stop recording the two MPs’ fight.
The Sergeant-at-arms then sweeps in to save the day and successfully separates the fighting MPs.
They, however, continue to hurl insults at each other even after being separated.
In a statement after the altercation, Umulkheir termed the incident unfortunate, adding that she deeply regrets.
The nominated MP said she has also reported the matter to relevant authorities.
“Today, an unfortunate incident occurred on the parliamentary grounds—a situation I deeply regret both as a Member of Parliament and as a mother. I have made a complaint on the assault with the necessary institutions,” her statement reads in part.
Umulkheir termed the incident regrettable, insisting that she does not encourage any form of misconduct.
“I sincerely regret this occurrence and want to emphasize that I do not endorse or encourage any form of misconduct. While I am not providing further comments at this time, I remain fully committed to upholding the respectful and dignified standards expected of our institution and myself, particularly as a Muslim woman.
“The political landscape is inherently challenging, but there is never justification for behaviour that undermines the integrity of our work. I hope that together we can foster a more respectful and constructive environment moving forward,” she added.
The UDA legislator was yet to state the drama. Officials at Parliament too were yet to comment on the incident.
