MCA Douglas Masikonde explains what sparked chaos at Ruto’s Maa Festival in Narok

Disorder erupted at the Maa Cultural Festival in Narok West when a brawl broke out between two rival factions near Sekenani Gate. Attendees rushed for safety as chairs were overturned and people began throwing objects at each other. The fight erupted few minutes before President William Ruto arrived at the festival venue. Chairs were damaged and the cultural gathering, which aims to celebrate Maa heritage, traditions and identity, was disrupted.

The incident forced leaders to plead for order, though some speakers were heckled and removed from the stage. President Ruto remained present throughout the event. The cause of the clash, whether anyone was injured, and the extent of the damage remain unclear. The festival had faced previous boycott calls due to unpaid bills from previous editions and unresolved disputes among artists, suppliers, traders and service providers.

The county governments of Narok, Kajiado and Samburu established the annual Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival in 2023, with rotating hosting responsibilities. The event showcases Maa-speaking communities' cultural heritage through music, dance, fashion, food, beadwork and sporting activities, aiming to promote unity, preserve indigenous knowledge and boost tourism and local economies.