Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has strongly defended Moses Wetangula, the Speaker of the National Assembly, amidst swirling rumors about a potential plot to remove him from office. Speaking at a church service in Khwisero, Kakamega County, Sakaja rejected claims that there was a concerted effort to oust Wetang’ula, asserting that the Speaker is firmly in place and should not be subjected to unfounded speculation.
The rumors began circulating after the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, leading to widespread claims that Wetang’ula could face a similar fate. Sakaja, however, was quick to address the issue, expressing concern over the negativity and division that such rumors were generating. He emphasized that the national focus should not be on undermining leaders but on building a stable and united country.
“We should not be a country that always brings people down,” Sakaja remarked, sending a clear message to those spreading such rumors. His comments seemed aimed at putting an end to the talk of Wetang’ula’s possible removal, insisting that the Speaker’s position is secure. “Wetang’ula is here to stay as the Speaker of the National Assembly,” he stated with conviction. Sakaja further urged those who might have ambitions to replace Wetang’ula to abandon any such thoughts, calling for unity and collaboration among leaders rather than divisive tactics.
Sakaja also took the opportunity to thank Acting Interior Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi for his leadership and proximity to President William Ruto, indicating that Mudavadi’s role is significant in stabilizing the political environment. Mudavadi, a senior figure in the ruling Kenya Kwanza Alliance, has played an influential role in managing political affairs and maintaining cohesion within the administration.
Wetang’ula, a seasoned politician and leader of the Ford Kenya party, has held the position of National Assembly Speaker since 2022, after being elected by Parliament following the general elections. His leadership has been seen as a stabilizing factor in the House, especially during a period marked by intense political rivalry and division. Despite this, the recent rumors about his position have stirred a degree of unease among his supporters and political allies.
The speculation regarding Wetang’ula’s potential ousting emerged in the wake of Gachagua’s impeachment, which raised questions about the vulnerability of other key figures in the government. However, Wetang’ula has maintained a strong public presence, and his influence in Parliament remains intact. Sakaja’s words served as a direct response to these rumors, reinforcing Wetang’ula’s legitimacy and asserting that the Speaker’s tenure is not in jeopardy.
In his remarks, Sakaja also expressed concerns about the broader political climate, urging the country to avoid the temptation to tear down leaders who have been democratically elected. “We should be a country that builds each other, not one that seeks to destroy,” he said, highlighting the importance of positive political engagement. This call for unity resonates with many who are weary of political infighting and the constant undermining of public figures, which has been a recurring theme in Kenya’s politics.
The speculation about Wetang’ula’s future is unlikely to disappear entirely, but Sakaja’s firm stance may help to quell some of the whispers and create a more supportive atmosphere for the Speaker. In the coming days, it remains to be seen whether the rumors will continue to spread or if the country will heed the call for unity that Sakaja has championed.
For now, Wetangula’s position as Speaker appears secure, and his leadership in Parliament will likely remain unchallenged unless new political developments arise. The message from Sakaja and other leaders is clear: the focus should be on cooperation, rather than fueling divisive narratives.
