This archive report was first published on 23 October 2019.
On June 13, 2019, a heated exchange between Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Gedi and Wajir East MP Rashid Kassim in Parliament ended in alleged assault. The incident occurred during a visit by the budget team, and Gedi testified about the events leading up to the altercation.
According to Gedi, Kassim demanded to know why she failed to allocate money to his constituency, despite Sh100 million being allocated to Wajir County. She explained to him that the allocated funds were for the people's priorities, including roads and water, but Kassim insisted that his constituents wanted a market.
As the exchange escalated, Kassim allegedly called Gedi 'stupid' and 'a liar' before punching her twice on the jaw and neck. Gedi testified that she saw blood oozing from her mouth after the incident.
Parliament Sergeant at Arms and other lawmakers intervened, and Gedi was taken to the Speaker's office before recording a statement at Parliament Police Station.
Gedi also revealed that she received threat messages from unknown individuals after the alleged assault and had to change her car due to concerns for her safety.
Wajir East MP Rashid Kassim denied the charges and was released on Sh50,000 cash bail.
