Drama unfolded at Parliament Buildings on Tuesday after two female Members of Parliament fought in the full glare of cameras.
In a video seen by the Star, the two MPs, one nominated by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party Umulkheir Harun and East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Falhada Iman, were filmed engaging in a fight.
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 Sargent-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.
