National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has sparked fresh debate in the country’s political landscape after positioning the Luhya community as a likely successor to President William Ruto in 2032.

While addressing the second anniversary celebrations of the Western Women Congress at Busibwabo Secondary School in Busia County on Friday, August 1, 2025, Wetang’ula said the Luhya community holds the numbers and political influence needed to mount a successful bid for the presidency.

“I reminded the Mulembe nation that the Luhya community stands a better chance of succeeding President William Ruto in 2032,” he stated, underscoring a need for early preparation and cohesion in the lead-up to the post-Ruto era.

Backing Ruto seen as a stepping stone

Wetang’ula’s message was clear: support for President Ruto’s 2027 re-election is a strategic investment in the Luhya community’s future ambitions. He urged residents and leaders from the region to rally behind the Kenya Kwanza administration to secure goodwill and political capital for the next transition.

“I have therefore urged our community to rally behind Ruto’s second-term bid in 2027 so that we can make this vision a reality. Our numerical strength as a people places us in a strong position in the race to succeed President Ruto,” he said.

Citing the 2019 census, which places the Luhya population at over 14 percent of the national total, Wetang’ula emphasised the bloc’s potential to influence national outcomes. He also lauded President Ruto for fulfilling pledges to the community, pointing to the appointment of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and other Luhya leaders to top government posts.

Mixed reactions from regional leaders

The Speaker’s pronouncement drew mixed reactions from key political figures in the region. Bungoma Senator David Wakoli Wafula welcomed the idea, saying the community must remain united.

Speaking at St. Peter’s Catholic Church on July 27, he said, “William Ruto should be able and ready to support ‘Papa wa Roma’ to be the next President of the Republic of Kenya.”

However, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale criticised Wetang’ula for what he termed partisan conduct, saying on July 26, “You are the first Speaker in the history of Kenya mwenye anabebwa na karani ya rais.”

Wetang’ula has also been vocal in defending President Ruto’s development record, citing key achievements such as the hiring of 100,000 teachers and health sector reforms under the Social Health Authority. He maintained that supporting the current administration remains the surest path toward regional advancement.