Farouk Kibet, a close aide to President William Ruto, has publicly endorsed National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula as a possible successor to the Head of State, signalling an early political talk within Kenya Kwanza’s wider political circle.

Speaking during a Sunday rally on May 31, 2026, Kibet told supporters that leadership from the western region should be recognised at the highest level of national politics. He used the platform to rally support for Wetang’ula, saying he believes the Speaker has reached the level of national leadership required for the presidency after Ruto’s term.

“Mimi nataka uongozi uje magaribi. Huyu Wetang’ula amekomaa kuwa rais wetu wa taifa la Kenya baada ya William Ruto,” Kibet said.

He went further, urging the crowd to openly show support for Wetang’ula and warning against political hesitation.

“Na mtoto anatunzwa nyumbani, anapendwa nyumbani. Mimi itakuwa ni aibu sana, mimi nisimame hapa alafu nyinyi mkose kushangilia Wetang’ula,” he added.

The remarks come at a time when Wetang’ula himself has been hinting at higher ambitions. In recent months, the Speaker has spoken about his long political journey, pointing to his roles as Member of Parliament, assistant minister, Cabinet minister, senator and now Speaker of the National Assembly.

He has framed this experience as preparation for national leadership, arguing that he has already served at nearly every level of government. His comments have fuelled growing discussion about a possible presidential bid in 2032.

Wetang’ula’s presidential ambitions

In a separate engagement earlier this month, Wetang’ula hinted more directly at his ambitions, saying he was no longer interested in “smaller” elective roles and that his focus was on national leadership.

“Sasa mambo ya siasa, nimekuwa ordinary MP, nikakuwa assistant minister, nikakuwa minister, nikakuwa senator wenu, sasa niko Speaker, number three in Kenya,” he said.

“Kweli nitakuwa wazimu kiasi gani kurudi nyuma kubishana kwa mambo madogo madogo,” he added.

Kibet’s endorsement now adds a new layer to that conversation, especially given his close association with President Ruto and influence within political mobilisation circles. While he does not hold formal office, his statements often reflect sentiments within sections of the ruling coalition.

The remarks also align with earlier reporting that Wetang’ula has been positioning himself for a possible presidential run after 2027. In past political engagements, he has signalled that his focus is beyond parliamentary leadership and toward the presidency.

In May 2026, during a meeting in Bungoma, Wetang’ula told supporters that he intended to focus on national leadership and unity, while also defending the broad-based political arrangement between Kenya Kwanza and ODM.