Kisumu market trader captured in viral video clobbering colleague during heated confrontation

Judith Matengo, the chairlady of Kibuye Market in Kisumu, is at the centre of controversy after a viral video captured her clobbering women traders during a heated political confrontation.

In the footage, Matengo is seen engaged in a tense exchange with one female trader. What began as a verbal disagreement quickly escalated, with the two women slapping each other as shocked traders rushed in attempting to separate them.

Moments later, Matengo was seen picking up a wooden pole, and despite a resident attempting to restrain her, she forcefully struck the woman, who by then had already fallen to the ground, and continued to slap her before onlookers finally managed to break up the altercation.

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The incident sparked public outrage, with many residents and traders arguing that her behaviour was unbecoming of a leader and raised serious questions about her temperament.

What has intensified the debate is Matengo’s own political ambition. In recent months, she had openly stated her intention to vie for a Member of County Assembly (MCA) seat in 2027. She has frequently portrayed herself as a grassroots leader deeply connected to the struggles of informal traders, promising to champion their interests at the county level.

However, critics say the viral confrontation paints a starkly different picture, one that suggests a tendency toward aggression rather than diplomacy.

The public has since called for authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident and for market leadership structures to be reviewed.

Civil society groups have also weighed in, emphasising the need for accountability and urging upcoming political aspirants to demonstrate integrity and calm leadership traits essential for effective public service.

In Narok, a dramatic scuffle ensued between a man and a police officer in Tendwet, and went viral after unfolding just metres from an active helicopter.

The footage shows a dog lingering dangerously close to the spinning blades before the man moves in, crouched low, appearing as though he may be trying to reach the animal.

A police officer stepped in, seemingly attempting to pull him back from the danger zone, and from their interaction, the man suddenly lashed out, thunderously slapping the officer.