Senators Edwin Sifuna (Nairobi) and Samson Cherargei (Nandi) were involved in a heated exchange in the Senate over the use of the term "tutam", a slogan associated with political succession debates.
The clash occurred during a house sitting where Cherargei was delivering a statement on the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme.
Before proceeding, he requested the Speaker's protection, setting the stage for what would become a tense session.
"The event was graced by none other than His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, a man of tutam, who attended as the chief guest. He brought together government leaders, conservationists, and members of local communities in a united effort..." Cherargei said, before being interrupted on a point of order.
Sifuna, visibly displeased, rose to challenge Cherargei's remarks.
@lightcasttvkenya This is not a place of jokes, we are not here to listen to rubbish! ~Sifuna clashes with Cherargei and Cheruiyot over WANTAM & TUTAM sentiments original sound - Lightcast TV Kenya
"Honourable Speaker, the rules of this House require that statements approved by your office be read exactly as passed. Can we confirm whether the use of 'tutam' was part of the approved text?" Sifuna asked sharply.
He went on, "This is not a place for jokes. We are not here to play games. Let him confirm to us whether that was part of the statement."
In the heat of his remarks, Sifuna repeatedly referred to the Lady Speaker as Mr. Speaker, further irking some members.
He warned Cherargei, saying, "If he wants to make his own statements, he can go to rallies in Kapsabet. Here, we are about serious business. We don't waste time listening to rubbish."
Sifuna's 'rubbish' statement irked the house, prompting the Speaker to instruct him to withdraw and apologise.
The session briefly descended into chaos as Senators began heckling, particularly over the "wantam" versus "tutam" slogans. Cherargei, who tried to resume his speech amid the noise, struggled to be heard.
The phrase "wantam", meaning "one term", was popularised by Former DP Rigathi Gachagua to imply that the current administration might serve only one term.
The term has since morphed into a full political slogan that has featured prominently in recent rallies and online political uprisings.
In response, some government allies have pushed back using the term "tutam", hinting at President Ruto's second term in the high office.
