Speaker Wetang’ula Criticizes Opposition Over Tribal Politics

By Robby Ngoba

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has criticised the opposition accusing them of promoting divisive politics along tribal and regional lines ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking at the Kilifi North MP Owen Baya’s mother Dorothy Baya Mweri burial on April 6, 2026 at Dabaso Village, the Speaker singled out leaders including Rigathi Gachagua and Kalonzo Musyoka saying their political approach risked undermining national unity.

The speaker warned that such actions, if unchecked, could destabilise the country.

He described some opposition figures as “greedy and poisonous individuals” and cautioned against allowing them to sow discord among communities.

Quoting from Shaaban Bin Robert’s Kusadikika, the speaker urged Kenyans to act wisely in order to safeguard the national cohesion.

“Let us not wait to be bitten by a snake before looking for a stick. If we delay, we risk damaging our country beyond repair.”

Wetang’ula also called on leaders to reject tribal and regional discrimination emphasising that Kenya belonged to all citizens regardless of background.

He cited the example of a former Sergeant-at-Arms Alois Lekoru from the Elmolo community near Lake Turkana who rose through the ranks on merit as a reflection of the inclusive nation Kenya should strive to be.

The speaker urged the Coast residents, historically aligned with Raila Odinga, to work with President William Ruto in promoting unity, reconciliation, and development.

He said the country’s “Singapore dream” should be understood as improved infrastructure, access to water, quality healthcare and peaceful coexistence.

“Let us build Kenya together. Rome was not built in a day, but it was built by its people,” he said while conveying the President’s message of condolence.

The speaker noted that the Coast region was increasingly benefiting from government programmes, citing improved access to national identification documents and expanded development projects.

On his part, Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah cautioned residents against embracing tribal politics warning that it could derail development.

He challenged religious leaders to discourage politicians from using church platforms to spread divisive messages.

“We urge the church to help lower political temperatures and correct leaders when they go wrong.”

The majority leader defended the government’s stance on the ongoing fuel saga stating that President Ruto’s administration should be supported in tackling corruption within the petroleum industry.

Sports cabinet secretary Salim Mvurya urged Coast residents to reject leaders who seek to divide them and instead support unity and development.

He called on the region to back President Ruto’s administration, saying it has delivered significant development and opportunities compared to previous regimes.

South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro urged politicians to refrain from invoking the name of the late Raila Odinga for political gain calling for respect for his family.

The bereaved legislator Baya eulogised his mother as a devoted parent who instilled strong Christian values in her family.