Hundreds of Bungoma residents took to the streets in a peaceful demonstration on Tuesday, voicing their opposition to the alleged plot to impeach National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula. The protesters called on President William Ruto to protect Wetangula, emphasizing his crucial role in delivering Western Kenya votes to the Kenya Kwanza government in the 2022 general elections.
The demonstrators, carrying placards and chanting pro-Wetangula slogans, accused opposition Members of Parliament (MPs), particularly those allied to the Azimio la Umoja coalition, of spearheading a political move to oust the Speaker. They urged the opposition to focus on supporting the government’s development agenda rather than engaging in what they termed as unnecessary political battles.
This protest comes amid rising political tensions in Parliament, where opposition MPs have accused Wetang’ula of favoring the Kenya Kwanza administration in critical House decisions. Additionally, Wetangula faces pressure following a High Court ruling that determined he could not hold both the Speaker’s position and remain the leader of the Ford Kenya party. His critics argue that he must choose between the two roles.
John Wekesa, a resident of Webuye, expressed his disappointment with those pushing for Wetang’ula’s impeachment, urging them to recognize his contributions to the government. He emphasized that Wetang’ula had been instrumental in passing key legislation that is advancing the country’s development.
“The President should protect Wetang’ula for being loyal to him and ensuring that Parliament functions efficiently,” Wekesa said.
The demonstrators recalled that after the 2022 elections, the Kenya Kwanza alliance visited Bungoma and endorsed Wetang’ula for the Speaker position. During a visit to Christ the King Church, President Ruto had sought local support for Wetang’ula’s bid, emphasizing his importance in the government.
“Apart from coming here to worship with you, I have also come to ask for your senator to become our next Speaker,” Ruto said at the time. “We have the numbers and without a doubt, Wetang’ula will be our Speaker.”
Rose Matere, another protester, called on all Kenya Kwanza MPs to defend Wetang’ula from what she termed as politically motivated attacks.
“You cannot remove a man who has helped drive this country forward. We need leaders who work together to fulfill their promises, not waste time on unnecessary fights,” she said.
Youth leader Dickson Okisai from Kanduyi echoed similar sentiments, stating that those eyeing Wetang’ula’s position should wait for the 2027 elections instead of attempting to push him out prematurely.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly has dismissed an attempt by a lobby to discuss Wetangula’s conduct, signaling that his position remains secure for now. However, as political tensions continue to rise, the coming days will reveal whether Wetangula can navigate the challenges to retain his influential seat in Parliament.
