National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has questioned the readiness of first-time lawmakers seeking Kenya’s presidency, arguing that political experience is important for anyone hoping to lead the country.
Wetang’ula made the remarks on Friday, October 23, 2026, during a women’s empowerment event at Jepkoyayi Grounds in Hamisi Constituency, Vihiga County. His comments came as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna continues to promote his presidential ambitions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Speaker cited Kenya’s past presidents, including Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta, saying they gained political experience before ascending to the country’s highest office.
“I urged first-time MPs aspiring to the presidency to learn from Kenya’s political history,” Wetang’ula said.
He maintained that Kenyans have traditionally placed their trust in leaders with experience and questioned whether a politician serving a first term in Parliament could successfully challenge President William Ruto in the next election.
“There is no miracle in winning the presidency in Kenya. Kenyans have always put their trust in experienced politicians for the presidency, and their choice is President Ruto,” he stated.
Although Wetang’ula did not name Sifuna in every part of his remarks, his comments appeared directed at the senator, who has expressed confidence that he can become president despite serving only one term in the Senate.
Sifuna Remains Confident in His Presidential Bid
Sifuna has acknowledged that some Kenyans question his age, financial resources and political experience. However, he has insisted that these concerns will not prevent him from seeking the presidency.
Last week, the senator said he had received pressure from supporters encouraging him to contest the 2027 election.
“For now, I am receiving a lot of pressure from Kenyans to vie for the presidency,” Sifuna said.
He added that some people were asking how he could become president after serving one term as a senator.
“But I know God’s guidance will lead me. I will be the first one-term senator to become president,” he declared.
Sifuna’s position contrasts with Wetang’ula’s argument that presidential candidates need years of experience and strong political networks before seeking the country’s top office.
Wetang’ula said he had no objection to young leaders pursuing their ambitions but warned that challenging Ruto without sufficient experience could affect their political careers.
Wetang’ula Sets His Sights on 2032
While questioning the timing of Sifuna’s ambitions, Wetang’ula also revealed that he intends to pursue the presidency in 2032.
The Speaker said his years in public service had prepared him for the responsibility of leading the country.
“I have held positions that have shaped my political journey. After President Ruto’s retirement in 2032, I am ready to take over the mantle from him,” he said.
He urged residents of Western Kenya to unite behind his political ambitions, saying he hoped to deliver the presidency that the region had long desired.
Wetang’ula also called on the region to support Ruto’s re-election campaign in 2027, outlining his immediate political position while expressing interest in a possible future contest.
MPs Defend Their Role in Gachagua’s Impeachment
The political gathering also featured criticism of lawmakers affiliated with the Linda Mwananchi movement who visited former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at his Wamunyoro residence to apologise for their role in his impeachment.
Five MPs accompanying Wetang’ula argued that they had acted correctly during the impeachment process.
Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe said the lawmakers had no reason to apologise.
“As MPs, we did the right thing to impeach Gachagua because his actions were becoming a threat to national unity and cohesion, and we have no apology to make to anybody,” Wangwe said.
