Wetang’ula to Sifuna: Presidential race needs experience, track record

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has warned aspiring young politicians against hastily jumping into the presidential race, emphasizing that the highest office demands a proven track record and extensive political experience. The remarks seem to be aimed at Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who has been actively campaigning in Western Kenya to position himself for the 2027 presidential elections.

Speaking from his home in Bungoma, Wetang’ula emphasized that former Kenyan presidents underwent lengthy political journeys that equipped them with the necessary diverse experience to lead the nation. He cited several former presidents, including Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and current President William Ruto, as examples of leaders who held various political positions before ascending to the presidency.

Wetang’ula's caution comes as political activity in Western Kenya intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election. Senator Sifuna, affiliated with the Linda Mwananchi movement, has been organizing rallies in Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, TransNzoia, Bungoma, and other counties to build a strong political base in the region. The Speaker urged aspiring presidential candidates to gain more political experience before seeking the top office and highlighted the importance of the Luhya community, which he believes is on the brink of producing a president.

Wetang’ula suggested that supporting President Ruto’s re-election could provide an opportunity for the community to succeed him in the future. He also called on senior Government officials from Western Kenya to leverage their positions for development and economic empowerment in the region, expressing frustration that many officials from the area do not actively contribute to local development despite holding high-ranking government positions.

Wetang’ula specifically mentioned the construction of Kanduyi Stadium, the revival of the Nzoia Sugar Factory, and the payment of overdue dues to farmers and workers as projects attributed to the Ruto administration. He also announced that Sh7 billion would be allocated in the national budget for the construction of a dual carriageway along the Malaba-Eldoret route, aimed at alleviating congestion caused by trucks transporting goods to neighboring countries.

Furthermore, the Speaker endorsed President Ruto’s Vision 2060 agenda and announced a meeting with the team behind the initiative, led by Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o, to unveil its roadmap for transforming Kenya’s economy and accelerating national development. Wetang’ula also urged chiefs and their assistants to intensify efforts in obtaining national identity cards for eligible residents, noting that more than 30,000 residents in Bumula were yet to acquire the necessary documents ahead of the 2027 General Election.