Chaos erupted outside Parliament Buildings on Tuesday afternoon after ODM-nominated MP Umulkher Harun Mohamed and UDA’s East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) representative Falhada Iman engaged in a physical fight, drawing widespread condemnation.
The altercation, captured on video and shared widely online, showed the two female lawmakers exchanging blows in a heated scuffle, shocking colleagues and onlookers. Parliamentary orderlies and other leaders were forced to intervene as the situation escalated. Some bystanders, however, were heard cheering the two on, further adding to the spectacle.
The incident, which unfolded in full public view, has been criticized as dishonourable and unbecoming of elected leaders. The dramatic clash is believed to have stemmed from long-standing political and personal differences between the two.
In a statement released later on social media, MP Umulkher expressed regret over the incident.
“Today, an unfortunate incident occurred on the parliamentary grounds, a situation I deeply regret both as a Member of Parliament and as a mother,” she said, blaming her EALA colleague for initiating the altercation. “While I am not providing further comments at this time, I remain committed to upholding the standards expected of our institution and myself, particularly as a Muslim woman.”
Falhada Iman had not publicly addressed the matter by the time of publication.
The incident has since sparked a wave of criticism online, with Kenyans from both political sides urging leaders to exercise restraint and decorum.
The Parliamentary Service Commission is yet to issue a formal response, but insiders say disciplinary action may be considered.
