Rongai parliamentary aspirant Mercy Chebet Chelel has moved to court to demand a public apology and Ksh50 million ($386,250) in damages from a rival politician, Tonny Kipkurui Wendo, over alleged defamatory remarks made at a public fundraiser in Nakuru County.

Through her lawyers Danstan Omari & Associates Advocates, Ms Chelel accuses the politician of making derogatory statements against her during the harambee in Menengai West Ward on May 24, 2026.

According to the demand letter, the remarks that are misogynist in nature, were allegedly made in local Kalenjin language by Mr Kipkurui and were interpreted as suggesting that Chelel – alias Mercy Chebet Chebil – should undergo female genital mutilation before she is considered suitable to contest for 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 at a time when she is gaining popularity in the constituency.

The letter further alleges that Kipkurui, who is said to be a senior employee of the Kenya Revenue Authority in Mombasa 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 in 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 and a public apology issued within seven days of receiving the letter. In addition, she is seeking 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 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.

• A Tell Media report