Tensions ran high during the burial of Mama Anne Nanyama, mother of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, as leaders fiercely debated rising cases of abductions and extra-judicial killings in Kenya. The heated exchange featured National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, with each leader firmly holding their ground.
The clash began when Natembeya disagreed with Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) boss Francis Atwoli, who claimed some individuals fabricate their own abductions to secure financial aid from civil society organisations. Natembeya condemned such remarks, expressing concern for families mourning lost or abducted loved ones.
“I say this with a heavy heart: for a leader to claim people are abducting and killing themselves is unfortunate and uncalled for, especially in such a solemn gathering,” said Natembeya. He stressed that the issue of abductions was real and should not be trivialized.
Ichung’wah, visibly agitated, rebuked Natembeya, accusing him of using the platform to attack Atwoli. He further pointed out that Natembeya, as a former regional commissioner under the previous administration, bore some responsibility for the alleged abductions and killings.
“You are a former officer; if you know who is behind these abductions, provide that information to the police instead of attacking Atwoli,” Ichung’wah retorted. He urged leaders to respect each other, warning Natembeya against “chest-thumping” at public events.
The Majority Leader later apologized to the mourners and the bereaved family for the confrontation, noting that his reaction was driven by the gravity of the issues raised.
Atwoli, in his address, emphasized the importance of instilling respect and discipline in the youth, urging them not to misuse social media. “Your right does not give you the freedom to infringe on others’ rights,” he remarked, while also defending his earlier comments on abductions.
The burial, attended by President William Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and other prominent leaders, highlighted the deep political and social divisions surrounding security and governance issues in Kenya.
