East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament Falhada Iman has publicly apologized after a physical confrontation with Nominated MP Umulkheir Harun (ODM) was captured on video and widely circulated on social media.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Iman expressed deep regret over the incident, acknowledging that it violated the decorum expected within Parliament and undermined public trust.
"The altercation was unfortunate and should never have happened," Iman stated. "Although I initially attempted to remain calm despite repeated provocation, I allowed the situation to escalate. My response in the heat of the moment was unacceptable. I take full responsibility for my actions and sincerely apologize to the public and my colleagues."
Iman also assured the public that the matter is now being addressed through appropriate legal and institutional channels.
Nominated MP Umulkheir Harun also addressed the altercation, expressing remorse. "What occurred within the parliamentary precincts was not only regrettable but deeply disappointing for me as a legislator and as a mother," she said.
Harun alleged that the confrontation stemmed from ongoing professional tensions with Iman. She claimed the EALA MP had persistently opposed her legislative work and accused her of approaching Parliament with the intent to provoke a physical altercation.
Harun confirmed that she has officially reported the matter to the relevant authorities and called for due process to be followed.
Viral footage from the altercation, recorded on Tuesday, shows the two MPs physically clashing as other female legislators struggle to intervene. Amid the chaos, voices can be heard urging others to stop filming.
The Sergeant-at-Arms eventually restored order, though verbal exchanges continued even after separation.
