Elgeyo Marakwet Assembly Turns Violent as MCAs Exchange Blows
Proceedings at Elgeyo Marakwet County Assembly turned chaotic on Tuesday as a heated debate escalated into a physical altercation, forcing the session to a halt.
Tensions flared after a contentious proposal was tabled, suggesting changes to the Isiolo County Public Service Board. At the heart of the dispute was the nomination of Sally Kimosop as the board’s chairperson, a decision that sparked division among Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).
Opponents of the nomination raised concerns about her qualifications, while others accused their colleagues of sidelining them in the decision-making process.
Drama unfolded during the afternoon session when a group of MCAs staged a protest inside the chamber, demanding the withdrawal of the notice. As tempers rose, a verbal exchange quickly devolved into a physical confrontation. Videos circulating on social media captured two MCAs engaging in a fistfight while their colleagues scrambled to separate them. Some members, alarmed by the escalating chaos, fled the chamber.
In response to the unrest, the assembly speaker was compelled to suspend the proceedings, citing the need to restore order.
Meanwhile, tensions extended beyond the assembly halls. Armed police officers clashed with Burat MCA Nicolas Lorot’s bodyguards outside the Isiolo County Assembly.
The scuffle erupted when the officers, stationed to secure the premises, attempted to block Lorot from entering the chambers where critical county matters were being discussed.
Addressing the media after the incident, Lorot accused Isiolo County Governor Abdi Gouyo of orchestrating the move, alleging it was politically motivated retaliation for his public criticism of the governor’s administration.
“When I came, I found the sergeant-at-arms standing at the gate alongside a group of police officers. They informed me they were instructed to prevent my entry without giving a reason,” Lorot stated. “This is political. I demanded a formal notice for my suspension, but they directed me to the police.”
Lorot further criticized Speaker Mohamed Roba for failing to notify him about his suspension, emphasizing that such actions undermine the integrity of the county assembly.
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Elgeyo Marakwet Assembly Turns Violent as MCAs Exchange Blows
