Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula has strongly rejected allegations of bias stating he has always upheld the Constitution which permits holders of the Speaker’s office to retain political connections.
In a press statement on Saturday August 2, 2025, Wetang’ula referenced Article 106 of the Constitution which permits the Speaker of the National Assembly to maintain political ties as long as they uphold fairness, neutrality and the integrity of Parliament.
“Nowhere does the Constitution bar the Speaker from retaining membership or leadership of a political party, provided that the Speaker upholds impartiality in presiding over parliamentary proceedings,” the statement read.
This came after an article titled ‘Wetang’ula: Fine line between the Speaker, politician,’ implied that his political involvements undermine his neutrality in Parliament.
His office dismissed these claims as ‘deeply skewed’ and ‘speculative’ stating that the story unfairly casts doubt on the Speaker’s integrity and commitment.
“The story presents a deeply skewed narrative that unfairly questions the integrity and commitment of the Speaker,” read part of his statement.
Wetang’ula’s office further argued that these claims that dismiss him as merely partisan, are unfair and overlook his consistent adherence to constitutional duties and potentially weakens the trust in Parliament.
“The portrayal of Speaker Wetang’ula as a “campaigner” or “partisan actor” deliberately ignores the Speaker’s proven record of conducting House business in accordance with the Standing Orders and the Constitution. Such assertions are not only misleading but risk undermining public confidence in the institution of Parliament itself,” his office argued.
Wetangula’s office maintained that the Speaker’s ongoing ties with Ford Kenya and his political activity in Western Kenya do not violate any constitutional provisions.
“Speaker Wetang’ula retains the right, enshrined in our democratic order, to engage with his constituents, articulate regional aspirations, and offer leadership in political discourse outside the formal sittings of the House,” the office remarked.
The Speaker’s office also emphasized that the recent High Court’s ruling that found that his dual role as both Speaker and leader of Ford Kenya was unconstitutional, does not undermine his role in the National Assembly or affect his ability to preside with impartiality.
“It is critical to note that the ruling does not in any way invalidate Speaker Wetang’ula’s service to the National Assembly or diminish his capacity to preside impartially.”
Wetang’ula additionally called on media outlets to uphold professionalism when covering matters involving constitutional offices.
“We urge members of the media to exercise responsibility, accuracy, and fairness in reporting on matters of national leadership.”
