MP aspirant demands Ksh.50 million from opponent over alleged defamation

Through her lawyers, Danstan Omari & Associates Advocates, Chelel accuses Tonny Kipkurui Wendot of making derogatory statements against her during a harambee held in Menengai West Ward on May 24, 2026.

According to the demand letter, the remarks, allegedly made in the Kalenjin dialect, were interpreted as suggesting that Chelel should undergo female genital mutilation before she could be considered fit to contest for the Rongai parliamentary seat.

The statements are said to have portrayed her as unworthy of leadership and incapable of leading men because she was allegedly uncircumcised.

The lawyers argue that the remarks were malicious, discriminatory and intended to damage Chelel's reputation and political standing.

The letter further alleges that the politician, who is said to be a senior employee of the Kenya Revenue Authority and an aspiring Member of Parliament, has engaged in a sustained campaign aimed at undermining Chelel's political ambitions.

Chelel also claims that on May 26, 2026, while attending a funeral within Rongai Constituency, she was attacked and harassed by individuals allegedly acting at the behest of the politician. The demand letter alleges that the attackers disrupted the funeral service and that local administrative officials were used to intimidate and shield those involved.

Her lawyers contend that the alleged remarks promote harmful cultural practices such as female genital mutilation, contrary to the Constitution and principles of equality and non-discrimination.

Citing Article 2(4) of the Constitution, the advocates argue that any act or custom inconsistent with constitutional provisions is invalid and that advocating for practices that demean women is unconstitutional.

In the demand letter, Chelel is seeking an unequivocal admission that the statements were made, a public apology issued within seven days of receiving the letter, and compensation of Ksh.50 million for the alleged damage to her reputation and political career.

The lawyers have warned that failure to comply with the demands within the stipulated period will result in legal proceedings being instituted against the politician without further notice.

The allegations have not been tested in court, and the accused politician had not publicly responded to the claims by the time of publication.