The driver of Kibra Member of Parliament Peter Orero was on Monday arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts after a viral video captured him driving on the wrong side of the road, obstructing other motorists — a clip that ignited public outrage and renewed debate on impunity among political elites.
The video, filmed and shared by journalist Larry Madowo, showed Orero seated in the front passenger seat as the car attempted to force its way through traffic along a busy Nairobi road. When Madowo refused to give way, the visibly agitated MP was heard saying, “Pelekea Ruto” — loosely translating to “Take that to President Ruto.”
The short exchange, filmed on Madowo’s dashboard camera, went viral within hours, trending across social media platforms under the hashtag #PelekeaRuto, with Kenyans demanding accountability from public officials who misuse privileges on the road.
Following the uproar, traffic police officers traced the vehicle and its driver, who was subsequently arrested and booked for obstruction and reckless driving, contrary to the Traffic Act (Cap 403).
When presented before a Nairobi magistrate, the driver pleaded guilty, admitting to having driven on the wrong side of the road. In his defense, he told the court that he had been rushing someone to the airport — a plea that failed to move the court.
The magistrate fined him KSh 100,000 or, in default, 12 months imprisonment, and gave him 14 days to appeal the ruling if dissatisfied.
Legal analysts have noted that under Sections 47 and 53 of the Traffic Act, the offence of obstructing or endangering other road users attracts a fine of up to KSh 100,000 or imprisonment of up to two years, or both.
The incident, though seemingly routine, has reignited Kenya’s perennial debate over VVIP road behavior, with many citizens accusing political figures of flouting traffic rules with impunity.
Public outrage was further fueled by the MP’s dismissive tone in the video, with online users calling it a symbol of “the arrogance of power.” Others defended Orero, suggesting the reaction was provoked by Madowo’s own refusal to yield — sparking a fiery exchange between supporters and critics.
The Kibra legislator has since maintained a low profile on the matter, but the viral clip has left a dent in his public image, coming at a time when lawmakers are under increasing scrutiny for abuse of privilege.
As the dust settles, the “Pelekea Ruto” video remains a stark reminder that no one is above the law — and that, in the age of citizen journalism, the camera never blinks.
