MPS Arati, Osoro exchange blows at Kisii DG Maangi’s father’s burial
By Mourice Seretta
The burial of Mzee Abel Gongera, father to Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi, turned chaotic on Monday after Dagoretti North Member of Parliament Simba Arati and his South Mugirango counterpart Sylvanus Osoro exchanged blows at the podium.
Things started to spiral out of control after Osoro told off Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Leader Raila Odinga to stop forcing people to accept his push for the Building Bridges (BBI) report.
Immediately he left the podium, Arati took the microphone and told off Osoro and asked that Deputy President William Ruto should stop campaigning against the BBI report being spearheaded by President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM Chief Raila Odinga.
Arati then sensationally asked the DP to apologies for killings that took place in the Rift Valley following the disputed 2007 presidential election.
On hearing that and being a staunch Ruto supporter, Osoro immediately rushed back to the podium, grabbed Arati by shirt and exchanged bitter words then blows before being separated by attendees including the police.
Meanwhile, Ruto and Raila sat pensively as the two engaged in the bitter exchange that saw the burial ceremony stop for several minutes.
Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga was also forced off the podium as she tried to grab the microphone from Governor James Ongwae who was coordinating part of the ceremony.
Several leaders have condemned the incident saying that it was uncalled for.
For instance, Gatundu South Member of Parliament Moses Kuria invited the International Criminal Court (ICC) to be following keenly happenings in the country ahead of the 2022 General Elections.
Kuria posted on his social media platforms that, “Yesterday at Sagana it was confirmed by the President that Tupa Nitupe is officially sanctioned by the government of Kenya. Today at a funeral in Kisii there was a physical fight between two of my colleagues Simba Arati and Sylvanus Osoro infront of the Deputy President and Raila Odinga. And its only 2021. Dear Fatou Bensouda. Book your ticket to Nairobi ASAP. Come save us from the imminent genocide.”
DP Ruto mourned Mzee Abel Gongera as a dependable and visionary leader of great conscience.
Ruto said that Mzee Gongera was tireless and dedicated figure whose distinguished servant leadership transformed the lives of many people.
“We will miss his wise counsel. Our prayers and sympathies are with the Gongera family and their loves ones at this difficult time. Rest In Peace, Mzee Gongera,” Ruto mourned.
Raila Eulogized Mzee Abel Gongera as a dedicated family man who single handedly raised his family.
Raila further said that Mzee Gongera was a staunch member of the SDA Church where he diligently served.
Maangi mourned his father describing him as peace loving and one who loved all.
He remained unapologetic for breaking away from ODM to work with Tangatanga arguing that there was nothing wrong with politicians uniting for the sake of the country.
“When you (Raila) decided to work with Uhuru, the country realised peace. If today you decide to work with Ruto, there would be nothing wrong,” said Maangi.
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