East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament Falhada Dekow Iman has issued a public apology following an altercation with ODM Nominated Member of Parliament Ummul Kheir.
The incident, which occurred within the corridors of National Assembly, has sparked public debate and raised concerns over conduct within legislative spaces.
In a statement released on April 9, 2025, Iman expressed deep remorse, acknowledging that the confrontation “was undeniably beneath the dignity of the institution we serve and the trust bestowed upon us by the Kenyan people.” She extended her “unreserved apologies” for her role in the altercation.
Iman attributed the incident to “prolonged and intense provocation” during what she described as a highly charged parliamentary session. While claiming to have exercised restraint in the face of “repeated inflammatory remarks,” she admitted the situation “regrettably escalated beyond control.”
She conceded that her response “crossed the line of decorum expected of a public servant” and stated unequivocally that “no circumstance justifies such a breach of conduct.”
The altercation reportedly unfolded in view of parliamentary colleagues and was later amplified on social media, drawing wide public attention.
Iman expressed regret for casting a shadow over Parliament’s collective duty to uphold integrity and mutual respect, apologizing to Kenyans for “failing to exemplify the composure and maturity you rightfully expect from your representatives.”
Iman emphasized her commitment to accountability, stating that she would pursue resolution through appropriate channels and reiterated that “violence, in any form, has no place in our democracy.”
In response, Ummul Kheir has characterized the encounter as an unprovoked assault and has filed a formal complaint with the relevant parliamentary authorities. In her own statement, she described the incident as “unfortunate,” expressing disappointment that it took place within the precincts of Parliament.
Kheir, who acknowledged having “longstanding differences” with Iman, claimed she was “ambushed” and “blindsided” during the confrontation. “She came to Parliament to do nothing but attack me,” Kheir alleged, though she did not provide specific details of the incident.
Despite the altercation, Kheir affirmed her commitment to “respectful and dignified standards,” and reiterated her dedication to her legislative responsibilities and her identity as a “Muslim woman.” She emphasized that she does not “endorse or encourage any form of misconduct.”
While the precise details of the incident remain unclear, Iman’s apology and Kheir’s complaint underscore broader concerns about the expectations placed on public servants, especially in an era where lapses in conduct are quickly thrust into the public eye. The incident has sparked calls for greater decorum, professionalism, and conflict resolution mechanisms within Kenya’s legislative institutions.
