The burial of the late Mama Anne Nanyama, mother of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, was marred by a heated exchange between political leaders over the rising cases of abductions and extra-judicial killings in the country.
National Assembly Majority Leader, Kimani Ichung’wah, lost his temper during the event, rebuking Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya over his remarks on the controversial topic. The exchange took a tense turn after Natembeya disagreed with comments made by COTU Boss Francis Atwoli regarding the handling of abductions.
Ichung’wah, visibly upset, addressed Natembeya directly: “You are an officer; if you know people are being abducted, share the information with the police but do not come here to shout at Atwoli.”
The Majority Leader also reminded Natembeya that he had previously served as a regional commissioner in the last administration, which had been criticized for its involvement in abductions and extra-judicial killings.
While emotions ran high, Ichung’wah later issued an apology to mourners and the grieving family for his harsh reaction, acknowledging the inappropriate nature of his remarks.
The burial ceremony, held in Bungoma County, saw the attendance of high-profile leaders, including President William Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli. Governors Ken Lusaka (Bungoma) and Paul Otuoma (Busia), along with National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohammed, were also present, as well as a host of MPs and senators.
In his speech, Atwoli emphasized the importance of teaching children respect and caution in using social media. “Your right is not key to tampering with the rights of others. We must respect the office of the President,” he stated.
He also accused some youths of feigning abductions to gain financial support from civil society organizations.
When given the opportunity to speak, Governor Natembeya condemned Atwoli’s remarks, particularly the suggestion that individuals were “abducting themselves.” He expressed his dismay, stating, “For a leader to stand here and say people are abducting and killing themselves is unfortunate. It is not for this hallowed grounds.”
Natembeya, his voice heavy with emotion, insisted that the rising cases of missing children and killings could not be dismissed so lightly. “Our children are getting lost and killed; that is the position,” he said.
As the heated exchanges unfolded, Ichung’wah, in his capacity as the next speaker, dismissed Atwoli’s comments, stating that, as an elder, Atwoli could not lie to Kenyans. “Do not think because you are a governor, you will chest-thump here,” Ichung’wah warned. “I have seen you in funerals attacking Wetang’ula. Please respect people and we will respect you back.”
