Nairobi County Assembly Speaker Faces Outrage Over Alleged Sexual Harassment

A video circulating on social media has sparked outrage, capturing Nairobi County Assembly Speaker Ken Ng'ondi's interaction with a Muslim woman at a birthday celebration.

The footage shows Ng'ondi greeting and embracing other guests before approaching the seated woman. Despite her clear refusal to shake his hand, Ng'ondi persists, insisting she stand up and embrace him. The video even records him instructing a photographer to capture the moment. The incident, which occurred on November 23, 2022, has ignited a firestorm of criticism. Muslim leaders have vehemently condemned Ng'ondi's actions, calling for his removal from office on grounds of sexual harassment.

The Muslim Lawyers Association has taken the strongest stance, demanding his prosecution for sexual assault. They assert that Ng'ondi's behaviour not only violated the woman's religious beliefs but also constituted a serious transgression against her bodily autonomy and dignity. The Association has issued a formal statement urging immediate action against Ng'ondi. They have specifically requested that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) press criminal charges for sexual harassment.

Lawyer Ahmednassir Abdullahi has publicly denounced the incident, equating Ng'ondi's actions to physical assault. He expresses his belief that criminal charges are inevitable. Former senator Billow Kerrow has joined the chorus of disapproval, demanding Ng'ondi's resignation and a thorough investigation by the authorities. Kerrow emphasizes the woman's position as a county official and argues that Ng'ondi's conduct constitutes a clear sexual harassment offence.

He maintains that Ng'ondi is unfit to hold office and should be compelled to step down. Additionally, Kerrow has urged the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to initiate an investigation and pursue criminal charges. The video footage captures an uncomfortable situation unfolding within an office environment. Ng'ondi is the centre of attention as colleagues gather to celebrate his birthday. The scene takes a turn when Ng'ondi approaches a female Muslim colleague, insisting that she stand and greet him with a handshake.

Despite the woman's evident discomfort and reluctance, Ng'ondi persists, urging her to comply with his requests. His male colleagues join in, amplifying the pressure on the woman to conform. The woman's unease is palpable as she eventually rises from her seat, visibly flustered by the situation. Ng'ondi then attempts to convince her to embrace him, continuously invading her personal space.