Deputy President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga have condemned two MPs who exchanged blows during a funeral in Kisii County on Monday.
In pictures and videos widely shared online, the two leaders – South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro and his Dagoretti North counterpart Simba Arati – are seen fighting on the dais as Ruto and and Raila watch in shock. Earlier, Osoro, a Ruto supporter, had been seen talking to the DP. However, hell broke loose when Arati, who was addressing mourners, castigated Ruto for associating himself with thieves and wash wash.
Mr Ruto and his political nemesis described the conduct of the two legislators – South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro and his Dagoretti North counterpart Simba Arati – as the epitome of political barbarism. In a joint signed statement, the two leaders said the events at Kisii captures what ails the country’s politics, saying it was a sad day in the history of the country.
“What will the two MPs tell their constituents? Who fights in funerals and calls himself mheshimiwa? Why can’t they learn from us?”
Osoro belongs to the Tanga Tanga wing of the ruling Jubilee party that supports Mr Ruto while Arati is a die-hard Raila supporter.
Ruto and Raila have in recent days enjoyed cordial relationship, with the former during a rally recently referring to the former PM as the heroe of the country’s second liberation. The two leaders are seen as top contenders in the country’s General Elections next year after term of President Uhuru Kenyatta ends.
