This archive report was first published on 22 November 2019.
On November 21, 2019, a heated debate erupted in Parliament when Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa threatened to punch Nairobi Women Rep Esther Passaris. The incident occurred during a discussion on a report by the Powers and Privileges Committee, which recommended Fatuma Gedi be punished for allegedly leaking privileged information to the media.
Barasa's outburst was sparked by Passaris' comments on the report, which he took as a personal attack. 'Honorable Speaker, I will punch this lady who is making noise to me. Don't make noise here!' Barasa exclaimed, pointing at Passaris.
Passaris, however, was not intimidated by Barasa's threat and dared him to punch her in the face. Her female colleagues also chimed in, suggesting that if Barasa was brave enough, he should face off with Simba Arati in Kibra.
The debate centered around a report by the Powers and Privileges Committee, which had concluded that Gedi had contravened the Powers and Privileges Act by leaking a letter from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to the media. The letter requested the House to produce four MPs alleged to be behind the creation of a sex tape to appear for grilling.
Despite the committee's recommendation, MPs voted unanimously against the report, effectively saving Gedi from punishment. The committee is chaired by Speaker of the National Assembly Justin Muturi.
