Two Uasin Gishu County Members of County Assembly (MCAs) engaged in a physical altercation during a heated discussion about the suitability of Ann Koech for the chief officer position in the Devolution and Public Service department.
The confrontation between Edwin Maraswa (Kapseret) and Julius Songok (Tulwet/Chuiyat) occurred amid disagreements over Koech's nomination, which was allegedly backed by county public service officials and an aide to Governor Jackson Mandago. A petition challenging Koech's eligibility on grounds of irregular staff employment and age had prompted the vetting committee to delay the process.
During the assembly session, Maraswa reportedly seized Songok's belongings and initiated a struggle that escalated into a brief fistfight. Songok retaliated with three punches to Maraswa's face before a counterstrike landed on Songok's cheek. Witnesses described the incident as a chaotic exchange that turned the chamber into a battleground.
Despite the disruption, the assembly approved Koech's nomination through acclamation, with Speaker David Kiplagat confirming majority support. Four MCAs later disputed the outcome, leading to the procedural fallout. The county assembly has since announced plans to pursue disciplinary action against both members under Chapter Six of the Kenyan Constitution governing leadership integrity.
