The debate in Parliament started as a normal discussion but quickly turned into a heated exchange about legal qualifications and academic achievements.
The tussle as shared by Tuko news, It all began when Peter Kaluma made a comment about his background in International Law, which did not sit well with some of his fellow MPs. Millie Odhiambo was the first to challenge him, questioning why he felt the need to show off his qualifications in Parliament.
She reminded everyone that there were other MPs with advanced legal education who never bragged about it. According to her, being humble was more important than showing off degrees.
Caroli Omondi added his voice to the debate. He defended his own experience and career in law and took issue with Kaluma’s claim of being the first Kenyan to specialise in the Law of the Sea.
Omondi did not hold back, and his challenge made the room go silent for a moment. MPs were drawn in by the seriousness of the back-and-forth, which had shifted from making laws to comparing legal titles. It was unusual for the House to focus so deeply on personal academic achievements rather than the issues facing the country.
Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah tried to bring some humour into the room by pointing out that Homa Bay County seemed to be full of legal experts.
He joked that the House should be proud of the legal firepower coming from that region. His lighthearted comment got a few laughs, but not everyone found it funny. The mood was still tense, and it was clear that some MPs felt the debate had gone too far.
Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie eventually called for order. He told the Speaker that Parliament had more serious matters to deal with, such as laws that affect the daily lives of Kenyans.
Kiarie said that while education and experience are important, the floor of the House should not be used for personal pride or academic contests. He urged his colleagues to focus on their responsibilities and leave personal achievements out of the debate.
What had started as a regular session ended up showing the hidden rivalries and egos among lawmakers. The clash between Kaluma, Odhiambo, and Omondi gave a glimpse into how easily pride and credentials can take over serious discussions.
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