NAIROBI, KENYA — National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has imposed a 90-day suspension on East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament, Falhada Iman, following her involvement in a physical altercation with Nominated MP Umulkheir Harun.
The incident, which transpired on parliamentary grounds on Tuesday, was captured on video and subsequently disseminated across social media platforms, generating significant public scrutiny and controversy.
Addressing the National Assembly on Wednesday afternoon, Speaker Wetangula strongly condemned the incident, asserting that MP Iman’s actions were unacceptable and compromised the integrity of the legislative body.
“…it is clear that the violent altercation casts parliament in bad light and is likely to reflect adversely on the dignity or integrity of Parliament and indeed the sanctity of the precincts of Parliament,” stated Wetangula.
In addition to the suspension, Speaker Wetangula has directed MP Iman to submit a written explanation regarding the incident by 5:00 PM on Monday, April 14.
The suspension, effective immediately, prohibits MP Iman from accessing Parliament buildings or its facilities during the 90-day duration.
“After reviewing the video and the incident report, it is clear that this violent altercation casts Parliament in a negative light and has the potential to damage the dignity and integrity of this House,” Wetangula remarked. “This behavior is unbecoming of a public official and will not be tolerated.”
Speaker Wetangula clarified that, as an EALA member, MP Iman does not possess the same privileges as members of the Kenyan National Assembly, particularly regarding the right to address the House directly. Consequently, he has mandated that MP Iman provide a written explanation of her actions.
Furthermore, the Speaker stipulated that, with the exception of the day MP Iman submits her written explanation, she will be denied access to Parliament facilities throughout the suspension period. Should she be required to deliver her explanation in person, she must be escorted by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
While EALA MPs are granted certain privileges, including access to Parliament and its facilities, such as the gymnasium, Speaker Wetangula emphasized that these privileges must be exercised with due respect for the institution and its core values.
Both MPs have since expressed remorse for the incident, with MP Iman issuing a public apology for her conduct.
The matter remains under review, with the Speaker expected to issue a final determination at a later date.
“Upon reviewing the response by Falhada, I will guide the House accordingly on any further action that can be taken based on the apologies I have directed to issue,” said Wetangula.
The Speaker also indicated that sanctions would be imposed on those MPs responsible for recording and sharing the video of the altercation.
