BUNGOMA, Kenya — National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has hinted at a possible presidential bid in 2032 while urging young people in Western Kenya to support President William Ruto’s re-election in 2027, marking a bold political message blending succession politics and alliance-building.
Speaking on Sunday at his Namuyemba residence in Bungoma County, Wetang’ula told a gathering of youths that the region’s political future depends on strategic national partnerships and sustained engagement in national politics.
“I have walked a long political journey. I cannot now come back to seek a Senate seat, a parliamentary seat, or a governorship. I am moving forward,” he said, signalling his long-term ambitions.
While stopping short of formally declaring his candidacy, the Speaker strongly hinted that his political trajectory is aimed at the top office in the future, urging the region to begin laying groundwork through alliances across the country.
Western Kenya’s Role in National Politics
Wetang’ula emphasized the importance of building cross-regional political alliances, naming the Coast, Luo Nyanza, Rift Valley, and Mount Kenya regions as key partners in shaping national leadership outcomes.
“We must build friendships with other communities… I want you to be my goodwill ambassadors as I prepare myself for the top job,” he told the crowd.
At the same time, he called on Western Kenya youth to rally behind President Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, describing it as a strategic step in securing long-term political influence for the region.
“We are pushing President Ruto’s agenda; we are partners. Now we must work for his re-election in 2027, and then in 2032 it will be our turn,” he said.
The remarks position Wetang’ula as a key political broker within the Kenya Kwanza administration, where he has played a central role in legislative leadership and coalition coordination.
Youth Registration and Political Participation
The Speaker also urged young people who have attained voting age to acquire national identity cards, describing them as essential for voter registration and civic participation.
“It is important to get your political weapon. The identity card is what allows you to get your vote,” he said, encouraging youth to engage actively in shaping electoral outcomes.
He framed youth participation as central to his political strategy, adding that their support would be critical in both immediate and long-term political contests.
Regional Leaders Back 2032 Strategy
Wetang’ula was accompanied by several leaders from Bungoma, including Senator David Wakoli, MP Catherine Wambilianga, MP John Makali, MP John Chikati, and Deputy Governor Jennifer Mbatiany, among others.
Senator Wakoli warned against political attacks directed at Western Kenya leaders, saying the region must consolidate its influence.
MP John Makali and former Bumula MP Mwambu Mabonga also urged youth to take advantage of the ongoing government waiver on ID registration fees to boost voter registration ahead of 2027.
Development Agenda and Political Messaging
Wetang’ula also highlighted Kenya Kwanza development projects, including expansion in education, improved service delivery, and major infrastructure works such as the Mau Summit–Rironi highway dualling and the planned Naivasha–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway extension.
He said the projects would enhance trade, regional connectivity, and economic growth while reducing road accidents.
The remarks underscore an emerging political realignment in Western Kenya, with leaders positioning themselves around both immediate electoral strategy and longer-term succession politics ahead of the 2032 General Election.
