After turning parliament grounds into a wrestling ring on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA) legislator Falhada Iman has issued a public apology following a dramatic altercation with ODM nominated MP Umulkher Harun Mohamed.
On Wednesday, April 9, Falhada took to her official X account to apologize for her actions. In a detailed statement, she acknowledged that the scuffle was inappropriate and reflected poorly on Parliament as an institution.
“To the Kenyan Parliament fraternity and the public, I feel compelled to address the regrettable incident that occurred within the corridor of Parliament, involving myself and Nominated MP Hon. Ummul Kheir. What transpired was undeniably beneath the dignity of the institution we serve, and the trust bestowed upon us by the Kenyan people. For this, I offer my unreserved apologies,” she stated.
Falhada explained that the altercation happened during what she described as a charged session in Parliament. She claimed that the situation stemmed from prolonged and intense provocation, and while she initially tried to remain calm, things quickly escalated.
“In the heat of the moment, my response crossed the line of decorum expected of a public servant. Let me be unequivocal: no circumstance justifies such a breach of conduct, and I take full accountability for my actions,” she said.
She went on to express deep regret to her colleagues and the Kenyan public for not upholding the standards expected of an elected leader. She stressed that leaders should always choose dialogue and restraint, even during passionate disagreements.
“To the public who witnessed this unsettling spectacle via social media, I apologize for failing to exemplify the composure and maturity you rightfully expect from your representatives,” she added.
Falhada affirmed that the incident is being handled through the appropriate channels and promised to engage in a constructive resolution process. She also pledged to learn from the incident and recommit herself to professionalism and civility.
“This moment serves as a profound reminder of the responsibility we bear as leaders. I vow to reflect deeply, learn from this lapse, and rededicate myself to the principles of civility and professionalism,” she concluded.
Harun speaks
Harun in her statement t on X earlier blamed Iman for a physical altercation between the two. While expressing regret over the incident, Harun claimed her EALA colleague, with whom she has had longstanding differences, acted unacceptably.
According to Harun, Iman came to Parliament with the sole intention of attacking her, an act that caught her off guard.
“Today an unfortunate incident occurred on the parliamentary grounds—a situation I deeply regret both as a Member of Parliament and as a mother. My colleague from the EALA, who has expressed longstanding differences with my work, acted in a manner that I find unacceptable. She came to Parliament to do nothing but attack me, an incident that blindsided me and left me questioning what faulted the ambush,” she narrated.
Harun added that she would not comment further but remained committed to maintaining decorum, especially as a Muslim woman.
“I sincerely regret this occurrence and want to emphasise that I do not endorse or encourage any form of misconduct. While I am not providing further comments at this time, I remain fully committed to upholding the respectful and dignified standards expected of our institution and myself, particularly as a Muslim woman,” Harun stated.
She concluded by revealing that she had reported the assault to the relevant authorities and called for a more respectful political environment.
“The political landscape is inherently challenging, but there is never justification for behaviour that undermines the integrity of our work. I hope that together we can foster a more respectful and constructive environment moving forward. I have made a complaint about the assault with the necessary institutions. Thank you,” she wrote on Facebook.
WWE showdown
The confrontation between the two leaders quickly turned physical and shocked the public. Videos and photos widely shared on social media captured the two MPs wrestling on the floor as fellow lawmakers rushed to separate them. The incident sparked a national outcry, with many Kenyans condemning the behaviour as dishonourable and embarrassing.
In the video, a male MP could be heard urging onlookers to let the two individuals fight as he continued filming the incident.
Attempts by those trying to break up the brawl to get the lawmaker to stop recording were unsuccessful.