Kibra MP Peter Ochieng Orero is facing intense public criticism after a video surfaced online showing his vehicle violating traffic rules and engaging in a heated exchange with CNN International correspondent Larry Madowo.
The short clip, which has been widely shared across social media platforms, captures Orero’s car driving on the wrong side of a busy Nairobi road. Madowo, who was driving in the opposite lane, blocked the vehicle from passing, leading to a confrontation.
In the video, voices are heard hurling insults at the journalist, with one occupant of the MP’s car shouting, “Peleka kwa Ruto… takataka!” (“Take it to Ruto… rubbish!”). The exchange has drawn widespread condemnation from Kenyans who termed the conduct reckless and unbecoming of a public leader.
Public outrage
Online users expressed outrage over the incident, accusing the legislator and his driver of arrogance and disregard for the law.
“This is the kind of impunity we must stop. Leaders should lead by example,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Some of Orero’s former students also joined the criticism, saying the MP’s behavior betrayed the values he once taught as a school administrator before joining politics.
Police launch manhunt
Following the uproar, the National Police Service confirmed that a manhunt has been launched for the MP’s driver, who is accused of obstructing traffic and insulting the journalist. Nairobi Traffic Police Commandant Fredrick Ochieng stated that the law applies equally to all motorists, regardless of their status.
“Only authorized vehicles such as ambulances, fire engines, and presidential escorts are allowed to break traffic rules when necessary. Any other driver who does so commits an offense,” said Ochieng.
Under Kenya’s Traffic Act, driving on the wrong side of the road attracts a fine of up to KSh 10,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.
Leadership under scrutiny
The incident has reignited public debate over accountability among elected officials, with critics calling on leaders to uphold integrity both in and out of office.
As police pursue the case, Kenyans are closely watching to see whether legal action will be taken against the MP’s driver—or the lawmaker himself—in what could become a test of how traffic laws are enforced for VIPs.
