MP Iman Falhada Suspended for 90 Days Following Physical Altercation on Parliament Grounds

The National Assembly has sanctioned East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member Falhada Dekow Iman with a 90-day suspension following a physical altercation with ODM-nominated MP Umulkheir Harun Mohamed within Parliament premises. 

The incident, captured in a widely circulated video, has prompted Speaker Moses Wetangula to enforce disciplinary measures to uphold the integrity of the legislative body. Speaker Wetangula announced the suspension on Wednesday, emphasizing that such conduct undermines the dignity and public trust vested in the National Assembly. Falhada is barred from entering Parliament for 90 days, except to deliver a written apology to the House. 

The Sergeant at Arms will escort her for this purpose. While Falhada faces immediate suspension, Umulkheir will be given an opportunity to defend her actions and issue her own apology. The Speaker indicates that further actions would be determined after evaluating both apologies. The altercation has ignited debate regarding the ethical conduct of parliamentarians and the sanctity of parliamentary spaces. 

The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has also condemned the unauthorized recording and dissemination of the video, citing privacy breaches and compromised institutional dignity. KEWOPA’s statement emphasizes that while the altercation was regrettable, the act of recording and sharing the footage was a violation of trust. Falhada has formally apologized, admitting her actions were inappropriate and contrary to the standards expected of a public servant. 

She attributes her behaviour to intense provocation but accepts full responsibility. Conversely, Umulkheir has used social media to claim Falhada initiated the confrontation, describing it as an unexpected attack. She also expresses remorse over the incident's unfolding. Speaker Wetangula has also ordered an investigation into the recording of the incident, with possible sanctions under the Parliamentary Powers and Privileges Act if it is determined that a sitting MP was responsible.