Two Kisii MPs clash over Ruto and Matiang’i

Tension Flares as Kisii MPs Clash Over President Ruto and Ex-CS Matiang’i
A heated political exchange erupted in Kisii County on Saturday after two Members of Parliament — Anthony Kibagendi and Japheth Nyakundi — clashed publicly over President William Ruto and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i. The confrontation, which occurred during a local public event, briefly disrupted proceedings when Kibagendi, known for his critical stance against the President, accused Ruto of being a habitual deceiver. The remark drew an immediate reaction from Nyakundi, a vocal Ruto ally, who attempted to seize the microphone from his colleague, sparking a commotion that required security officers to intervene.
The altercation underscored the deepening political rift within the Kisii leadership, long seen as a region torn between loyalty to Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration and sympathy for opposition figures linked to former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Dr. Matiang’i. Observers say the fallout mirrors a wider struggle for influence in the Gusii region, where local leaders are competing to align with national power centers ahead of future elections. Kibagendi, who has often accused the government of sidelining the region, stood his ground, while Nyakundi dismissed his comments as cheap theatrics meant to score headlines.
Reactions to the scuffle have been swift and divided. Some constituents expressed disappointment over the conduct of their leaders, calling for sobriety and unity to address pressing local issues such as youth unemployment and stalled infrastructure projects. Others defended the MPs’ passionate exchange as evidence of vibrant democracy. Political analysts, however, warned that such confrontations risk deepening divisions within the Gusii political bloc at a time when unity could secure greater national bargaining power.
As the dust settles, both lawmakers face mounting pressure to reconcile and refocus their energies on development rather than personal rivalries. The incident also highlights the broader challenge facing Kenya’s post-election political landscape — how to balance loyalty, dissent, and governance in an era of shifting alliances and heightened public scrutiny.