The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula, finds himself embroiled in a legal dispute over an alleged unpaid debt amounting to Ksh. 281,000. The lawsuit, filed by Isoka Bethwel in the Small Claims Court, revolves around an agreement for the supply of two German Shepherd dogs and associated services, which Bethwel claims Wetangula has not fully honored.
Background of the Dispute
According to court documents, Bethwel, a supplier and trainer of German Shepherd dogs, entered into an agreement with Wetangula to provide two male German Shepherd dogs. Alongside the dogs, Bethwel was also tasked with providing various dog-related services and supplies, including training services, food, and grooming products.
The supplies allegedly included four packs of dog food, specifically Four Packs of Brave Active, dog training sleeves, a dog leash, choke chains, grooming brushes, a dog nail cutter, five liters of dog shampoo, and five liters of kennel disinfectant. The total cost for these services and products came to Ksh. 348,100.
Payment Issues Arise
Bethwel asserts that, while an initial payment of Ksh. 100,000 was made by Wetangula, the remaining balance of Ksh. 248,100 has yet to be settled. In the court documents, Bethwel outlines his repeated attempts to secure the outstanding payment, stating that Wetangula has refused to honor the agreement.
“I tried reaching out to the Respondent to recover the said balance, but the Respondent rudely and adamantly informed me that he would not pay me the remaining balance,” Bethwel claims in the court papers.
Psychological Distress and Legal Action
Bethwel further alleges that the situation has caused him significant psychological distress, compounded by the financial strain of the unpaid balance. He claims that, despite his best efforts to resolve the matter amicably, he has been left with no choice but to seek legal redress.
“I waited for the payment of the remaining balance of Kenya Shilling Two Hundred and Forty-Eight Thousand, One Hundred (Kshs 198,100/-), but all was in vain,” Bethwel states, indicating that the amount owed remains unpaid.
In response to the ongoing situation, Bethwel has turned to the Small Claims Court, seeking the court’s intervention to ensure that he receives the full payment owed to him. He argues that without the court’s involvement, he stands to lose the entire amount, further exacerbating his distress.
Wetangula’s Response
As of the time of writing, Moses Wetangula has yet to publicly respond to the allegations made against him. The case, which has drawn considerable attention due to Wetangula’s high-profile position, is expected to unfold in the coming weeks as the court assesses the claims.
Legal Implications
This case highlights the legal complexities that can arise from personal agreements, even involving public figures. The Small Claims Court is designed to handle such disputes quickly and efficiently, typically dealing with claims under Ksh. 1 million. Bethwel’s decision to file the suit in this court reflects his desire for a swift resolution to the matter.
The outcome of the case could have broader implications, particularly in how contractual obligations are viewed and enforced when one party holds a significant public office. If Wetangula is found liable, it may serve as a reminder that legal agreements, regardless of the parties involved, must be honored.
Conclusion
The lawsuit against Speaker Moses Wetangula over an alleged unpaid debt for German Shepherd dogs and related services brings to light the challenges that can arise from contractual disputes. As the case proceeds, the public and legal community alike will be watching closely to see how the Small Claims Court handles the matter and whether Bethwel will receive the compensation he claims is rightfully his.
