National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula addressing congregants during the launch of the Shirikiana SACCO at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology in Kakamega on Friday /HILTON OTENYO National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has dropped a hint at a possible 2032 presidential bid, declaring that Western Kenya is positioning itself to produce Kenya's next Head of State after President William Ruto leaves office.
Speaking during an empowerment programme at Butere Grounds in Kakamega, Wetang'ula said the region was strategically preparing for a shot at the presidency and that he was ready to lead the charge.
“If we want this leadership, let us unite and build bridges. We are eyeing the top seat of this country, and I will be there to lead you to capture it,” he said.
The Speaker said Western Kenya, which has previously occupied the office of Vice President on several occasions, was now assembling its political strength with a long-term plan to ascend to the country's top leadership position.
He said growing goodwill from other regions would strengthen the region's chances in future elections.
According to Wetang'ula, Nyanza, Northern Kenya and the Coast have already begun engaging Western Kenya in early political alignments.
“Other regions like Nyanza, which we have supported in previous elections, have indicated willingness to support us. Northern Kenya and the Coast are also working with us. We are definitely next in line,” he said.
Wetang'ula, however, said the ambitions would only become achievable if Western Kenya remained united and fully backed President William Ruto's re-election in 2027.
He argued that supporting Ruto for a second term would strengthen the region's bargaining power and pave the way for future reciprocity.
“This will only be possible if we support President William Ruto for a second term. That is why I am urging all the 18 sub-tribes of the Abaluhya community to support his 2027 re-election bid and ignore his critics,” he said.
The Speaker also said Western Kenya had already benefited significantly under the Kenya Kwanza administration through increased representation in senior government positions.
“In the previous administration under President Uhuru Kenyatta, we had only one Cabinet Secretary, Eugene Wamalwa. Today we have representation in key offices, including myself as Speaker; Musalia Mudavadi as Prime Cabinet Secretary; Wycliffe Oparanya; Deborah Barasa; and several Principal Secretaries. The President means well; let us support him in 2027 and he will return the favour,” he said.
Wetang'ula also urged residents of the Mulembe nation to register as voters and participate actively in elections, warning that voter apathy weakens the community's political influence.
“We want to walk together as a people. Do not allow outsiders to divide you along ethnic lines. If we remain united, one of us will definitely ascend to the presidency. Do not listen to leaders who insult others. Choose leaders with respect and vision,” he said.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah, who attended the event, echoed the call for long-term political planning and unity.
“We have heard you loud and clear. Support President Ruto for a second term and we will return the favour in 2032. The politics of tomorrow are planned. Unity and a single voice are key,” he said.
