Tensions Flare at Burial Ceremony as Former CS Penina Malonza Clashes with MC Over Speech

By TCD TEAM.

Tensions ran high on Friday during the emotive burial ceremony of six children who tragically lost their lives in a road accident, after an altercation between former Cabinet Secretary Penina Malonza and the Master of Ceremonies (MC) disrupted proceedings.

The burial, which had started solemnly under the strict directive that no political statements be made, took a tense turn when Malonza, who arrived late to the event, attempted to make a speech deemed political.

The County Commissioner, Mr. Chipchumba, had earlier ruled out any political statements following a request from the grieving families.

During her speech, the MC quietly approached and whispered to Malonza to conclude her remarks. In a sudden outburst, Malonza, visibly upset, retorted, “Mwanoo ninavitie kuu” (loosely translated to “Im past that “), expressing her frustration publicly.

Governor Julius Malombe had already been addressing mourners when he invited Malonza to offer her condolences and subsequently call upon Kitui Women Representative Dr. Irene Kasalu. However, instead of following the protocol, Malonza refused to call Kasalu to the podium, claiming it was a breach of protocol. Instead, she invited County Commissioner Mr. Kipchumba, who eventually invited Kasalu.

The incident left many attendees at the burial feeling uneasy, casting a shadow of tension over the already somber event.

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