National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on residents of Western Kenya to reject ethnic politics, saying the region should pursue a future built on national unity, cooperation and long-term political planning.
Speaking during a church service in Amalemba, Kakamega County, on Sunday, Wetang’ula urged Kenyans to resist leaders who seek political support by appealing to tribal loyalties.
“Don’t allow yourselves to be confused and drawn into tribal politics,” he told the congregation. He added that every Kenyan deserves equal treatment regardless of political affiliation and that the country belongs to all its citizens.
Without naming anyone directly, the Speaker criticised politicians he said had previously sidelined leaders from Western Kenya in government appointments but were now returning to the region to fault the Kenya Kwanza administration over unfulfilled promises.
“It is unfortunate that someone who was discriminating against us over the sharing of government positions can now come here and tell stories about how the government has failed to fulfil its promises to Western,” he said.
Wetang’ula urged residents to remain focused on the region’s long-term political interests, saying Western Kenya should position itself as a key player in national leadership rather than remain divided by internal rivalries.
A call for a new political strategy
The Speaker argued that Western Kenya has spent years largely aligned with opposition politics while leaders from other regions have often worked together despite political differences.
“It’s time to rethink our political strategy and plan,” he said, adding that the recent increase in political activity by leaders from the region should be viewed as preparation for future leadership rather than political restlessness.
“These are beacons of hope and leadership. We want everyone to know the son of Mulembe is capable of providing leadership when the time comes,” Wetang’ula said.
He also praised the leadership of Raila Odinga, saying his political approach reflected Kenya’s diverse society and demonstrated the importance of building broad national alliances.
Support for President Ruto’s second term
Wetang’ula maintained that backing President William Ruto for a second term would strengthen Western Kenya’s chances of producing a national leader after Ruto leaves office.
“We don’t want to stand in an election to make a point but to win,” he said.
Reflecting on the region’s political history, Wetang’ula noted that Western Kenya has supported successive national leaders, including Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Mwai Kibaki, Raila Odinga, Uhuru Kenyatta and President Ruto.
“A good turn deserves another,” he said.
Defending the government’s record
The Speaker also defended the Kenya Kwanza administration, arguing that consistent leadership and clear policy direction are essential for sustained economic growth.
Drawing a comparison with Singapore, he said the country’s development had been driven by stable policies, disciplined leadership and the commitment of its people.
His remarks come as political activity intensifies across Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders from both government and opposition camps increasing public engagements and seeking to strengthen regional alliances.
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