A funeral ceremony in Kisii turned chaotic after a physical confrontation erupted between two Members of Parliament over remarks made about President William Ruto.
The incident involved Kitutu Chache North MP Japheth Nyakundi, affiliated with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), and Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Tensions flared during a funeral ceremony of Salome Ongwae, stepmother to former Kisii Governor James Ongwae, on Friday, September 12, when Kibagendi publicly criticised Ruto, referring to him as a liar, a statement that provoked Nyakundi.
“We were wit as a community and a nation to elect a president who is a liar…,” he said.
According to the video, Nyakundi, visibly angered by the remarks, interrupted Kibagendi and attempted to take the microphone from him.
When the ODM politician refused to give, he physically confronted him, leading to an exchange of blows.
Security personnel and mourners rushed to the stage to separate the two leaders and restore order.
Following the scuffle, mourners were seen chanting ‘wantam’ while escorting Kibagendi out of the venue.
The incident has sparked concern among Kenyans over rising political intolerance and the conduct of elected leaders at public events.
MPs Silvanus Osoro (South Mugirango) and Dorice Donya (Kisii Woman Rep), together with Senators Richard Onyanka (Kisii) and Okongo Omogeni (Nyamira), were among the leaders who attended.
