National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on church leaders to spearhead a voter registration campaign in Western Kenya, saying hundreds of thousands of eligible residents have national identity cards but are yet to register as voters with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Speaking during the MUCODET and Mothers’ Union fundraising event at the ACK Diocese of Mumias in Nangili, Matungu Constituency, Wetang’ula urged clergy and church groups to mobilise eligible Kenyans to enlist as voters ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Hundreds of Thousands Yet to Register
The Speaker said research conducted by leaders from the region indicated that approximately 400,000 residents in Kakamega County and 346,000 residents in Bungoma County possess national identity cards but have not registered as voters.
“We are appealing to our church leaders to encourage members of their congregations who have acquired national identity cards to register as voters. Those who already have IDs but have not registered should do so without delay,” he said.
Wetang’ula stressed that voter registration is a civic duty and urged residents to actively participate in the democratic process.
Mothers’ Union Asked to Champion Voter Registration
The Speaker also called on members of the Mothers’ Union to become ambassadors for voter registration across the region.
According to Wetang’ula, the five counties of Bungoma, Kakamega, Busia, Vihiga, and Trans Nzoia have the potential to contribute more than five million votes if all eligible residents register.
“If we organise ourselves and register every eligible voter, our region will have a stronger voice in national affairs,” he said.
Call for Peaceful and Development-Focused Politics
Wetang’ula urged political leaders to embrace issue-based campaigns and avoid divisive rhetoric ahead of the next election cycle.
“Politics is not enmity. We do not want insults or exchanges of abusive language. We want politics that focuses on development and improving the lives of our people,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and unity while engaging in political competition.
Speaker Defends Ruto’s Development Record
The National Assembly Speaker defended President William Ruto’s development agenda in Western Kenya, arguing that the region has witnessed increased government investment under the Kenya Kwanza administration.
He cited several ongoing and completed projects, including:
- Revival of Mumias Sugar Company and Nzoia Sugar Company
- Resumption of stalled projects such as Bukhungu Stadium
- Construction of the Level Six Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kakamega
- Development of modern markets across the region
- Planned extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Malaba
Wetang’ula also highlighted reforms in the sugar sector aimed at improving earnings for cane farmers.
“The government has introduced reforms to ensure that sugar millers harvest cane, process it, sell sugar and share bonuses with farmers at the end of every year. These are some of the changes this administration is making to improve farmers’ livelihoods,” he said.
Leaders Urged to Be Patient in Their Political Journey
Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election and future leadership contests, Wetang’ula encouraged aspiring leaders from Western Kenya to build their political careers gradually rather than rushing to seek the presidency.
“Across the country, every region is planning for the future. Leadership is a journey. Those who have led this country built their careers over many years before becoming president. We should also remain patient and strategic,” he said.
He also urged the Mothers’ Union and church leaders to continue mentoring young people and promoting moral values, noting that religious institutions play a critical role in fostering national unity and responsible citizenship.
