National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has banned EALA MP Falhada Iman from accessing Parliament buildings and facilities for the next 90 days, following her involvement in a physical altercation with ODM nominated MP UmulKher Harun.
Wetang’ula issued the directive on Wednesday saying the incident cast the Parliament in bad light.
This follows a widely circulated video that captured the two MPs engaging in a scuffle within the precincts of Parliament on Tuesday afternoon.
“Having reviewed the video and incident report it is clear the violent altercation between the Hon. Umulkher and Hon. Falhada cast parliament in bad light and likely to reflect adversely on the dignity or integrity of parliament and indeed the sanctity of the precincts of parliament,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker also revealed that the viral video was allegedly recorded by a sitting Member of Parliament, warning that the individual will face consequences if the claim is verified.
“The recording of the video is claimed to have been done by a member of this House. Should this be ascertained, it will also attract sanctions under the Parliamentary Powers and Privileges Act, Cap 6,” Wetang’ula stated.
Umulkher issued an apology to House, expressing regret over the incident.
“I wish to sincerely apologise to this House and the public for the incident, and I regret yesterday’s events. In my 28 years of life, I have never been involved in any physical altercation. I feel deeply sorry for what transpired yesterday, both as a Member of this House and as a Muslim woman. I wish to go on record as someone who holds the dignity of this House and the public in the highest regard,” she said.
However, Wetang’ula noted that while the apology was acknowledged, Umulkher is “not off the hook yet,” indicating that further disciplinary action will follow upon conclusion of the ongoing investigations.
The Speaker also directed that MP Falhada Iman be given an opportunity to issue a formal apology to the House in accordance with Parliamentary conduct guidelines.
“I direct that the member explains herself to the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Service Commission in writing by 5PM on Monday 14 April, 2025,” Wetang’ula ordered.
