National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Moses Wetangโula has called on Members of Parliament to ensure transparency and integrity in the selection of new Commissioners to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Speaking during a church service at Mokwo Parish in Keiyo South Constituency, Elgeyo Marakwet County, the Speaker urged lawmakers to put national interests above political considerations.
Wetangโula emphasized that Parliament has a critical role in shaping Kenyaโs electoral landscape by approving competent and independent individuals to the commission. He reminded MPs that the Selection Panel had already published a long list of candidates, and it was now their duty to ensure the final picks uphold the countryโs democratic values and not push the country to turmoil.
โNyinyi wabunge mko kwenye harakati ya kuchagua IEBC mpya. Tafadhali, mutafute Wakenya wenye msimamo, wanaotii sheria, na wanaoheshimu katiba,โ he stated.
The Speaker stressed that a strong and independent IEBC is crucial in maintaining electoral integrity and public confidence in Kenyaโs democratic processes.
While addressing the congregation, Speaker Wetangโula reaffirmed his support for President William Rutoโs leadership, urging leaders from all political divides to focus on unity and development.
โTunamuunga mkono Rais wetu kikamilifu, ili alete watu pamoja. Katika nchi yetu, tunacheza siasa za kiwango cha juu. Ikifika siku ya kura, tunapiga kura, na kiongozi anajitokeza,โ he remarked.
He called on politicians to rise above partisan divisions and work towards a united Kenya, warning that political instability only hinders progress.
โTunataka Kenya iliyoungana. Hata katiba yetu inasema Kenya is a unitary state,โ he added.
Wetangโula also spoke on the importance of nurturing young leaders, highlighting the need for seasoned politicians to mentor and support the next generation. He shared his personal experience of honoring an invitation from a young leader, Hon. Kimaiyo, instead of attending another high-profile event, saying it was important to uplift young people in politics.
โHata leo, nilistahili kuwa na Rais wetu, lakini nikamwambia kuna kijana, Kimayo, amenialika kwake. Kama wazee, hatupaswi kuwadidimiza vijana hawa. Ningemwambia sikuji, sijui kama angekuja hapa aseme nini?โ
This, he said, was a testament to the need for inclusivity and mentorship in leadership.
Speaker Wetangโula also addressed recent political developments, including the meeting between President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga. He clarified that strategic decisions within their political camp are made collectively, reinforcing the need for teamwork in leadership.
โKatika timu yetu, kamati ya uongozi ndiyo inayoamua masuala haya mazito. Hiyo kamati ni โPapa wa Roma,'โ he stated, signifying a structured approach to decision-making.
The country moves forward, Wetangโula urged MPs and leaders across the political spectrum to put the nationโs interests first, especially in critical matters such as electoral reforms. He called on lawmakers to ensure the IEBC selection process remains transparent and reflective of Kenyaโs democratic aspirations.
The Speakerโs visit to Mokwo Parish not only reinforced his commitment to good governance but also underscored the role of political and religious institutions in fostering national unity and stability.
