Rongai parliamentary aspirant Mercy Chebet Chelel has demanded a public apology and KSh50 million in damages from her rival, Tonny Kipkurui Wendot, a Kenya Revenue Authority employee based in Mombasa, over alleged defamatory remarks.
Through her lawyers, Danstan Omari & Associates Advocates, Chelel accuses Wendot of making derogatory statements about her during a public fundraising event (harambee) held in Menengai West Ward, Nakuru County, 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 reportedly portrayed her as unworthy of leadership and incapable of leading men because she was allegedly uncircumcised.
Her lawyers argue that the remarks were malicious, discriminatory, and intended to damage her reputation and political standing at a time when she is gaining popularity within the constituency.
The letter further alleges that Wendot, who is also an aspiring Member of Parliament, has engaged in a sustained campaign to undermine 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 her rival. The attackers are said to have disrupted the funeral service, with claims that local administrative officials were used to intimidate and shield those involved.
Her legal team contends that the alleged remarks promote harmful cultural practices such as female genital mutilation, which contravene the Constitution and principles of equality and non-discrimination.
Citing Article 2(4) of the Constitution, the lawyers argue that any act or custom inconsistent with constitutional provisions is invalid, adding 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 within seven days, and compensation of KSh50 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 without further notice.
The allegations have not been tested in court, and Wendot had not publicly responded to the claims by the time of publication.
