Tension lingered in Kisii County following a heated confrontation between Kitutu Chache South MP Antony Kibagendi and Kitutu Chache North MP Japhet Nyakundi during the funeral of Salome Ongwae, stepmother to former Kisii Governor James Ongwae.

The clash, which nearly turned physical, captured the attention of mourners and political observers, raising questions about the deepening political rivalry between the two lawmakers.

Speaking on Friday, September 12, 2025, after the incident, Kibagendi, an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) legislator, sought to explain the cause of the disagreement.

“Hapa Kisii tumeamua kumuunga mkono Fred Matiang’i na mambo ya Kenya Kwanza na William Ruto hatutayakubali, hayo ndio mambo yaliyomkasirisha MP wa Kitutu Chache North ambaye hata yeye mwenyewe alikuwa ameona hana uhusiano mzuri na wapiga kura wa kule hata kama ni constituency yake,” Kibagendi said, emphasising that his support for certain political figures had been the point of contention.

The MP clarified that his remarks were not intended to disrupt the funeral but reflected his constituency’s political stance. His statement suggested that Nyakundi’s reaction was fueled by differences over political loyalties rather than personal animosity.

Nyakundi’s response

Kitutu Chache North MP Japhet Nyakundi, who was at the centre of the confrontation, also addressed the incident, stressing that funerals should remain solemn occasions.

“If you are coming to funerals, come mourn and go home; if you want anything else, we will deal with you perpendicularly. We don’t have a second choice because you cannot be spoiling other people’s funeral, and they must accept, we are supporting William Ruto,” Nyakundi said, underscoring the need to separate political disagreements from mourning ceremonies.

Both MPs’ comments reflect the intense political divisions within Kitutu Chache North and South constituencies

The confrontation has since dominated discussions on social media and local news, with residents debating the appropriateness of political debates during solemn events. Both MPs have emphasised that while political disagreements exist, respect for mourners and the sanctity of funerals remains important.