National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on the Luhya community to unite behind President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, saying it would strategically position the region for a potential presidential succession in 2032.
Speaking during the second anniversary of the Western Women Congress at Busibwabo Secondary School in Busia County on Friday, Wetang’ula stressed that the region’s numerical strength and demonstrated unity could significantly influence national leadership outcomes.
“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 to President Ruto’s inclusion of Western Kenya leaders in key government roles—including the appointment of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and others—as evidence of his goodwill toward the region. He also cited the President’s backing of his own election as Speaker as further proof of Ruto’s inclusive leadership.
Wetang’ula said continued support for the President would enhance the region’s bargaining power and increase its chances of producing a future Head of State. He also lauded the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) recent decision to collaborate with the government, saying it had helped stabilise national politics.
He praised ODM leader Raila Odinga for shelving his presidential ambitions in favour of unity and called on other politicians to prioritise national cohesion over personal interests.
Wetang’ula urged opposition leaders to give President Ruto the space to implement his agenda, condemning efforts to incite unrest as detrimental to national progress. “The President’s critics are judging him harshly. For the period he has been in the driving seat, he has done exemplary well and he needs time to deliver on his promises,” he said.
He noted the government’s efforts toward food security, citing a steady rise in maize production, from 48 million bags three years ago to 65 million last year, and a projected 85 million this season, attributed to the subsidy program for farm inputs.
On economic empowerment, Wetang’ula challenged the Western Women Congress to move beyond social functions and craft an economic blueprint that empowers members. “The next meeting should be about unveiling an economic blueprint to benefit members,” he said, pledging full support.
Women leaders, including MPs Beatrice Elachi (Dagoretti North) and Elsie Muhanda (Kakamega County), echoed Wetang’ula’s call for unity, urging women from the region to rally behind Ruto’s re-election.
“We should not be left behind when women from other regions have already made their choice,” said Hon. Muhanda.
The anniversary celebration, hosted by Busia Woman Representative Hon. Catherine Omanyo and Western Women Congress President Connie Lusweti, brought together women leaders from across the Western region and the country.
Written By Rodney Mbua
