National Assembly Dismisses Censure Motion Against Moses Wetang'ula

The National Assembly has dismissed a petition seeking to censure Speaker Moses Masika Wetang'ula, citing procedural regulations that limit how such matters can be addressed.

Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge had earlier clarified that the Speaker's actions can only be officially questioned through a substantive motion initiated by a Member of Parliament, in accordance with the Constitution, the Petition to Parliament (Procedure) Act of 2012, and the National Assembly Standing Orders. The petition, presented by Nakuru activist Laban Omusundi, accused Wetang'ula of compromising the impartiality expected of his position.

This claim was primarily based on Wetang'ula's comments during President William Ruto's visit to Western Kenya, where he criticized Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka for his inquiries into the President's bonus payments to sugarcane farmers. Wetang'ula's endorsement of the President and his assertion that the Western region supported Ruto's administration were highlighted as indicators of his alleged bias. Njoroge's statement emphasizes that procedural barriers prevent the public from directly initiating motions of censure against the Speaker.

This presents a legislative protocol designed to protect the Speaker from such actions without parliamentary backing. Wetang'ula has faced considerable backlash from both the public and Members of Parliament, particularly following a controversial decision on February 12 that declared Kenya Kwanza the majority coalition, a move that contravened a High Court ruling. Defending his position, Wetang'ula articulated his belief that the court's decision was flawed, asserting that the parliamentary leadership structure would remain intact.

The implications of these developments are significant, particularly as Members of Parliament aligned with the Azimio Coalition have vowed to contest Wetang'ula's ruling and call for adherence to the High Court's judgment. Minority Leader Junet Mohamed announced intentions to withdraw coalition members from key parliamentary committees, including the influential House Business Committee, in an act of protest against the Speaker's actions.