Speaker Wetang’ula rallies Luhya community to back Ruto’s re-election, eyes 2032 succession

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the Luhya community to rally behind President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027, saying this would significantly boost the region’s chances of producing Ruto’s successor in 2032.

Speaking during the second anniversary celebrations of the Western Women Congress at Busibwabo Secondary School in Busia County, Wetang’ula told the Mulembe nation that its numerical strength positions it strategically in the race to succeed President Ruto.

“The Luhya Community stands a better chance of succeeding President Dr William Ruto in 2032,” Wetang’ula said. “I have therefore urged the community to rally behind Dr Ruto's second term bid in 2027 in order to realise this.”

The Speaker pointed out that President Ruto had demonstrated goodwill towards the region by appointing Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, alongside other leaders from Western Kenya, into government positions.

He further cited the President’s support for his own election as Speaker of the National Assembly as evidence of Ruto’s commitment to inclusivity.

Wetang’ula emphasised that continued unity and backing for President Ruto would not only strengthen the region’s political bargaining power but could also inspire the Head of State to eventually hand over the country’s leadership to someone from the Luhya community.

“Our unity and rallying behind the President to secure a second term would motivate him to hand over the mantle of running the nation to one of our own,” he noted.

The Speaker also welcomed the recent decision by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to work with President Ruto’s administration, describing it as a move that has lowered political temperatures and helped stabilise the country.

Wetang’ula commended Opposition leader Raila Odinga for shelving his political ambitions to collaborate with the government, adding that other presidential hopefuls should follow his example in prioritising national stability over personal ambition.

The Speaker also asked Opposition leaders to give President Ruto time to discharge his mandate, noting that their scheme to derail him through fanning chaos and incitement was not good for the country.

He noted that President Ruto is almost making Kenya a food-secure nation through the introduction of a subsidy programme for farm inputs.

Wetang’ula further urged leaders of the Western Women Congress to transform the group from a purely social platform into a robust economic empowerment organisation. 

He challenged them to craft an economic blueprint that would directly benefit members and enhance their financial independence.

Women MPs led by Beatrice Elachi (Dagoreti North) and Kakamega's Elsie Muhanda urged women to back President Ruto's bid for a second term noting that he has been key to uplifting the lives of women across the country.