Dramatic Ejection of MP from Parliament
A dramatic incident unfolded in the Kenyan parliament when a legislator was ejected for disorderly conduct. The event, which took place on Thursday, November 13, left many observers stunned and sparked widespread reactions across social media.
Musili Mawathe, the Embakasi South MP representing the Wiper Party, caused a major disruption during the session. Kimani Ichung’wa, the Majority Leader and MP for Kikuyu constituency, raised concerns about Mawathe’s behavior, accusing him of being intoxicated.
“The MP clearly looks intoxicated. I know it is Thursday afternoon, but no one has the right to appear in the House drunk. And the MP cannot come to skew things in the House while clearly intoxicated. Speaker, I shall be moving to name the MP for seemingly looking very drunk,” Ichung’wa stated.
The situation escalated as the video footage captured Parliament officials standing over the MP as he angrily spoke into the microphone, his words drowned out by other shouting legislators. Gladys Shollei, the acting Speaker, responded swiftly:
“Honourable Mawathe, you are already expelled from the precincts of Parliament and therefore, you cannot even make a point of order. Please leave. Sergeant-at-Arms, proceed to eject Mawathe from the House.”
An angry Mawathe screamed at the Sergeant-at-Arms while noting that he was leaving. He then threatened to assault one of the legislators while using insulting language.
“Don’t be stupid,” Mawathe said.
However, numerous MPs shouted him down, telling him to leave the House. A female MP added, “God is seeing you, and Kenyans are also seeing you.”
Public Reactions to the Incident
Kenyans were unimpressed by the drama, with many expressing their disappointment on social media. Some critics pointed out that no one had tested to confirm whether the MP was indeed intoxicated.
Here are some of the reactions:
- K’teneiyo Kamara Kanda:“Shillings well spent.”
- tmbae1:“This is childish behaviour.”
- Anishiro:“Ati apeleke ulevi nje.”
- Shakirapinki:“Shame, a respectable House becomes chaotic.”
- Vshajema:“Instead of doing their job, they are busy fighting each other.”
- patt_tj:“What a shame.”
- Mmgatana:“Here, there is an opportunity to be able to sue them because nobody did a test.”
Impact on Parliamentary Conduct
The incident has raised questions about the decorum and professionalism expected from members of parliament. Many believe that such behavior undermines the credibility of the institution and distracts from the important work that needs to be done.
The ejection of Mawathe highlights the need for stricter enforcement of parliamentary rules and a commitment to maintaining order during sessions. It also serves as a reminder that public officials must uphold the standards of conduct that their constituents expect.
As the debate continues, the focus remains on ensuring that the parliament remains a place where meaningful discussions can take place without disruptions. The incident has not only drawn criticism but also sparked conversations about accountability and the responsibilities of those in power.