The chaotic scenes at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, March 24, 2025, where Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya was forcibly ejected by a group of angry youths, have ignited a broader conversation about political conduct and accountability.

While the incident during the Kenya Vs Gabon football match was undeniably troubling, critics argue that Salasya’s own history of confrontations and public outbursts may have contributed to his public humiliation.

The assault, which was captured on video and widely shared on social media, showed a visibly shaken Salasya being shoved toward the exit while insults and objects were hurled in his direction.

The crowd accused him of disrespecting opposition leader Raila Odinga, with chants of “Lazima aheshimu Raila” (“He must respect Raila”) ringing through the stadium.

Police intervened swiftly to prevent further harm, escorting him safely from the venue.

For many observers, the incident was an ironic twist in the political career of a leader who has frequently been at the center of aggressive and controversial behavior.

1. A History of Physical Violence

In January 2024, Salasya made headlines when he physically attacked Malaha Ward MCA Peter Walunya during a funeral in Kakamega County.

The altercation reportedly stemmed from a protocol dispute, and the situation escalated to the point where Salasya’s security team discharged firearms.

The MP was later arrested and charged with assault and creating a public disturbance—a move that reinforced his reputation for volatile conduct.

2. Open Disrespect for Fellow Leaders

Salasya has also been unafraid to take verbal shots at fellow politicians.

At the burial of General Francis Ogolla in May 2024, he publicly berated Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi for failing to acknowledge his presence.

The confrontation laid bare his ongoing personal feuds, including long-standing disagreements in a parliamentary WhatsApp group.

His open disdain for his colleagues has only added to his growing list of political enemies.

3. Threatening Judicial Officers

The most alarming incident came in November 2023, when the Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association (KMJA) condemned Salasya for allegedly threatening to kill Kakamega Magistrate Gladys Kiama.

The threat was said to have followed a court order requiring the MP to settle a Ksh500,000 debt.

The KMJA’s strong rebuke highlighted concerns about his respect for the judiciary and the rule of law.

4. Fueling Political Intolerance

Salasya’s inflammatory rhetoric has contributed to a culture of political intolerance.

Critics argue that his behavior encourages hostility and undermines the spirit of democracy.

Political analyst Dr. Samuel Okello suggests that the backlash at Nyayo Stadium reflects the public’s growing impatience with leaders who engage in impunity without consequence.

“You cannot keep disrespecting others and expect to walk through public spaces unchallenged,” Okello remarked.

“Salasya’s confrontational style has created enemies across the political spectrum. What happened at Nyayo Stadium was a manifestation of the public’s frustration.”

5. Failing to Read the Political Mood

Despite his public persona, Salasya appears to have misread the political climate.

His perceived disrespect for Raila Odinga—a towering figure in Kenyan politics—further alienated him from supporters who view Baba as a symbol of political resistance.

His failure to recognize the importance of political alliances and public sentiment ultimately led to his downfall at Nyayo Stadium.

The Road Ahead

Following the incident, Salasya took to social media to defend himself, stating, “I didn’t want to commit blood in my hands. I had options, but I chose peace.”

Despite this defiant stance, the episode has damaged his public image and raised questions about his political future.

Whether Salasya will temper his combative approach remains uncertain.

What is clear, however, is that the backlash he faced at Nyayo Stadium was not an isolated act of hostility—it was the culmination of a career built on confrontation, now turning against him in the court of public opinion.