Tension flared in Kisii County on Friday, September 12, 2025. Two MPs almost engaged in a fistfight during a funeral. The leaders involved were Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi and Kitutu Chache North MP Japhet Nyakundi.
The incident happened at the burial of Mama Salome Nyaboke, stepmother to former Kisii Governor James Omariba Ongwae.
Kibagendi addressed mourners and touched on politics. He declared that the Kisii community would not support President William Ruto. Instead, he said the community backs former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i.
“After offering my condolences, I entered a bit into politics. I told our people that we, as the Kisii community, have decided to come behind Matiang’i, and we will not support Ruto,” Kibagendi said.
Nyakundi, a strong Ruto ally and UDA treasurer, quickly objected. He argued that a funeral is not the right place for political speeches. The situation escalated when Nyakundi tried to grab the microphone. Mourners rushed in to separate the two leaders. A video showed Kibagendi holding the microphone while regaining his balance.
After the incident, Kibagendi defended his remarks. He reiterated his support for Matiang’i and urged unity among the Gusii community. Nyakundi insisted his objection was about timing and setting, not politics itself. He said political discussions should happen at public gatherings, not funerals.
The scuffle highlights growing political tension in Kisii. It shows the divide between pro-Matiang’i and pro-Ruto supporters. Observers criticized both MPs for bringing politics into a solemn occasion.
As the 2027 elections approach, this incident reminds leaders to maintain decorum. Political expression must balance with respect for public events.
