Speaker of the National Assembly Rt Hon Dr Moses Wetang’ula has responded to Opposition Leader Mr Raila Odinga’s criticism of his attendance at State House during bill assent ceremonies.
Dr Wetang’ula said that his presence aligns with his constitutional duty under Article 115, dismissing Mr Odinga’s claims of compromise as misplaced.
Addressing mourners on Friday during a funeral function in Mukhweya village Kabuchai constituency in Bungoma county, Dr Wetang’ula questioned Odinga’s understanding of the bill assent process, highlighting Mr Odinga’s own past presence as Prime Minister at State House during the late President Mwai Kibaki’s tenure without scrutiny.
Dr Wetang’ula also addressed critics opposing the recent meeting at the State House involving President Ruto, Chief Justice Martha Koome, and himself.
The Speaker justified the meeting, stating it addressed crucial national issues, including corruption.
Dr Wetang’ula dismissed the criticism, stating, “They should stop mourning louder than the bereaved.”
He further asserted that it was reasonable for President Ruto to meet with heads of the two other arms of government, calling the condemnation unjustified.
Dr Wetang’ula urged opposition leaders to refrain from baseless attacks for political gain.
The Speaker made these remarks during the burial ceremony of Mr Antony Namisi Maloba, the brother of his long serving body guard Mr John Maloba.
He was accompanied by five lawmakers led by Bungoma Senator Wakoli Wafula.