Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang'ula has intensified efforts to bolster support for President William Ruto, urging Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa to abandon the opposition coalition and join the Kenya Kwanza government. Wetang'ula made these remarks during separate meetings in Western Kenya, suggesting that Wamalwa reassess his political stance to work with the government for the benefit of citizens. He claimed that leaders in the coalition Wamalwa currently supports could politically betray him.
Wetang'ula also criticized former President Uhuru Kenyatta, advising him to respect his status as a retired president and allow the Ruto administration to lead without interference. At an event empowering bodaboda operators at Ojaamong' Comprehensive School in Busia County, Wetang'ula noted that retired presidents in Kenya have traditionally given their successors space to govern without public criticism. He cited his own experience serving under Presidents Moi and Kibaki without publicly challenging their successors.
The Speaker tasked Kenyatta with focusing on his duties as a retired president and African Union representative, emphasizing that this role requires patriotism and cooperation with the current government. Meanwhile, Wetang'ula defended President Ruto's bid for a second term in 2027, stating that the election should be determined by the government's development record. He cited road projects, affordable housing, agriculture, electricity, and irrigation as key achievements for voters to consider.
In Busia County, Wetang'ula praised projects such as the Busibwabo Export Processing Zone and the Bunyala Irrigation Scheme, saying they would create jobs and stimulate local economic growth. During a funeral in Saboti, Trans Nzoia County, Wetang'ula continued to advocate for Ruto's second term, noting that previous leaders had served multiple terms without political hindrance. He urged leaders to abandon abusive politics and focus on citizen welfare.
Wetang'ula's comments come as Kenya Kwanza leaders intensify campaigns to strengthen Ruto's support across the country ahead of the 2027 general election. The efforts aim to solidify Ruto's position and expand his political base. Wetang'ula's statements reflect the ongoing political dynamics in Kenya as leaders position themselves for future elections.
The call for Wamalwa to support Ruto and Uhuru to retire from opposition politics highlights the evolving political alliances in Kenya. As the 2027 election approaches, leaders are reevaluating their positions and forming new coalitions. Wetang'ula's advocacy for Ruto's second term and criticism of Kenyatta's continued involvement in opposition politics underscore the complexities of Kenyan politics.
The developments in Kenyan politics have significant implications for the country's governance and electoral landscape. As leaders navigate their roles and alliances, citizens are watching closely, anticipating the outcomes of these political shifts. The conversations around leadership, development, and political loyalty will likely continue to shape Kenya's political discourse.
Key points
- Wetang'ula urges Eugene Wamalwa to support President William Ruto and abandon the opposition coalition.
- He advises former President Uhuru Kenyatta to respect his status as a retired president and allow the Ruto administration to lead without interference.
- Wetang'ula defends Ruto's bid for a second term in 2027, citing the government's development record as a key consideration for voters.
