Cherang’any parliamentary aspirant John Njunguna has urged the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to summon National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula over remarks he made during an economic empowerment event in the region.
Njunguna accused Wetang'ula of making comments that could stoke ethnic divisions, particularly in the cosmopolitan Trans Nzoia County, which is home to diverse communities.
The controversy stems from Wetang'ula’s recent address, during which he questioned members of the Kalenjin community for allegedly failing to defend President William Ruto against criticism from political opponents.
Njunguna described the statement as divisive, warning that it could fuel tensions and harm relations among communities in the region.
“The National Cohesion and Integration Commission must take immediate action against Wetang'ula, as his sentiments could fuel ethnic animosity in Trans Nzoia,” he said.
He added: “His remarks risk pitting one community against another—something that could destabilize the peaceful coexistence we’ve worked so hard to maintain.”
Njunguna also accused the Speaker of taking a partisan approach, saying it undermines the neutrality expected of the office.
Njunguna said Speaker Wetang'ula has betrayed Kenyans by taking a tough partisan stance, even on matters that require neutrality and legislative focus.
He added that Wetang'ula’s actions have gone against the spirit of unity that his office is supposed to promote.
“As the head of the National Assembly, Wetang'ula is supposed to remain impartial on national matters. But he has failed in that regard,” said Njunguna.
Wetang'ula’s comments have triggered mixed reactions, with some defending him as expressing legitimate concerns on behalf of his community, while others view the remarks as inappropriate—especially given Trans Nzoia’s multi-ethnic population.
The NCIC has not yet responded to Njunguna’s call for action, but political observers suggest the commission may intervene if the remarks are deemed inflammatory or a threat to national cohesion.