Nairobi, Kenya—A highly anticipated session of the National Assembly Health Committee devolved into a chaotic shouting match on Tuesday as Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and Kitutu Chache South Member of Parliament (MP) Anthony Kibagendi engaged in a fiery verbal confrontation. The exchange, which was captured and rapidly circulated online, saw the two high-profile figures trade scathing personal accusations, abruptly derailing the committee’s crucial oversight function.
The acrimonious showdown erupted as the committee was questioning CS Duale over serious allegations of corruption within the Ministry of Health and purported conflicts of interest involving the registration of private hospitals. MP Kibagendi, a member of the committee, pressed the CS on these claims, leading to an immediate and aggressive response from the Cabinet Secretary.
Trading Accusations
CS Duale, staunchly defending his integrity, vehemently denied the accusations. He then launched a counter-attack, repeatedly calling the lawmaker an “extortionist” and a “thief,” suggesting that certain unnamed committee members were misusing their parliamentary oversight role for personal gain. “This nonsense you are bringing to this country must stop,” Duale reportedly stated, daring his accusers to charge him if they had evidence. “You can charge me if you wish—I have nothing to hide.”
MP Kibagendi was equally defiant, firing back at the Cabinet Secretary. “Duale, you cannot intimidate me. I fear no one. We are not your children,” the MP retorted, further accusing the minister of attempting to evade accountability on the critical issues facing the Health Ministry. The volatile exchange, characterized by pointed fingers and raised voices, created a palpable tension in the committee room .
By Citizen