Kenya, July 7 -- A new political issue is developing in Kenya after Moses Wetang'ula, the Speaker of the National Assembly, became more involved in politics. Some people are worried that he is becoming too close to the executive branch of government.
Wetang'ula holds an important position in Kenya's government, and his active participation in pro-government events is raising concerns about the separation of powers between different branches of government.
Recently, Wetang'ula has been visiting different counties, using language similar to campaign speeches to gather support for the current government.
He seems to be trying to counter a movement called "wantam" led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, among others.
Wetang'ula wore a cap with "TUTAM" written on it a slogan against the "One Term" movement from the opposition, showing his political loyalty.
During one of his visits to the Coast, Wetang'ula criticized opposition leaders and spoke against what he calls "tribal and divisive politics," while supporting government programs aimed at helping the economy.
A recent article from the East Africa Centre for Law and Justice mentioned that the close ties between the executive branch and some lawmakers are hurting the independence of Parliament.
This means that some Members of Parliament (MPs) might support the Executive's ideas instead of focusing on their role to oversee the government.
Martin Oloo from Bunge la Mwananchi in Mombasa said that Wetang'ula should act as an independent leader of Parliament, not take sides politically.
He believes that when the speaker engages in partisan activities, it goes against the system of checks and balances that our Constitution aims to create.
The Constitution states that Parliament has the power to make laws, and the National Assembly's job is to keep an eye on the executive branch. The Speaker is supposed to ensure that Parliament remains independent and impartial.
However, Wetang'ula's shift into political campaigning-after stepping down from his leadership role in Ford Kenya when he became Speaker-has blurred the lines of his responsibilities.
"We are seeing a slow loss of trust in our institutions," says Grace Atieno, a Mombasa resident.
"How can Parliament hold the Executive accountable when its Speaker is out campaigning for the President? The very image of that is concerning, even if it is technically allowed."
While the Constitution doesn't prevent the Speaker from having political views or being part of political parties, it requires that they maintain neutrality, especially when they have a role that balances the powers of government.
The issue becomes even more significant when looking at Kenya's political past. Previous speakers, like Kenneth Marende during the Grand Coalition government, often chose to stay away from active politics.
Some supporters of Wetang'ula argue that he has the right to discuss national issues and attend government events. Others say that his public appearances often align with his official duties.
With elections still two years away, Wetang'ula's involvement in politics is already stirring speculation about his future political plans or whether he is acting as a supporter for President Ruto.
In a democracy, the way we present ourselves is important. The image of a National Assembly Speaker active in campaigns, speaking against the President's critics, might represent Kenya's ongoing struggle with following constitutional rules.
Wetang'ula also warned against the return of tribal politics, saying this could lead the country back into the chaos experienced during the violence after the 2007 elections.
While speaking at a church service in Kwale County, he called on leaders from all sides to put the country first and avoid political intolerance, highlighting that the cost of disunity is too high.
"We must never let our nation fall back into ethnic violence and political fighting. We remember the pain from 2007, and we must work to prevent that from happening again," he said.
He encouraged Kenyans to see their diversity as a strength rather than a weakness and urged political leaders to focus on unity.
He reminded everyone that the Constitution ensures that all citizens have the right to live and thrive anywhere in the country without fear or discrimination, adding, "We are one people with a shared destiny."
He concluded by saying that authority comes from God, and no one can change what God has decided.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.