Wetang’ula raises concern over Bukusu elders’ dwindling influence ahead of 2027
By Kiprono Keileb, April 3, 2026National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on Bukusu elders to unite and take a more active role in shaping political direction and community leadership, as the country slowly shifts focus toward the next election cycle.
The Speaker shared the message on Friday, April 3, 2026, through his X account after hosting elders drawn from Western Kenya and Trans Nzoia at his residence in Bungoma County, where he said discussions focused on unity, leadership, and the region’s political future.
The speaker pointed out the long-standing influence elders hold in guiding communities and shaping national conversations, saying their role remains central in linking people with leadership and offering direction on key matters.
“Elders in Kenya wield significant political influence, serving as a vital link between communities and the government while offering trusted counsel to national leaders,” Wetang’ula’s statement reads.
“Today, I held a productive meeting with Bukusu elders from Western and Trans Nzoia at my home in Bungoma to discuss key community issues and ways to strengthen their role in society,” he wrote.
Diminishing influence
Wetang’ula turning to the internal challenges facing the elders, raising concern that divisions among them have weakened their voice and reduced their ability to influence both community and national affairs effectively.
“I expressed concern that their lack of unity has diminished their influence, respect and effectiveness and pledged support, including the provision of an office to improve coordination,” Wetang’ula wrote.
Wetang’ula also pushed the elders to take a firmer stand in defending leaders from the Luhya community, urging them to show the same unity seen in other regions when their leaders come under pressure.
“I challenged them to firmly defend senior Luhya leaders against political attacks and urged them to emulate the solidarity often shown by Luo elders in support of leaders such as former Prime Minister Raila Odinga,” the statement reads.
He further asked the elders to take responsibility in guiding young people on discipline and respect, while also aligning the region politically with the current administration under President William Ruto ahead of the next election.
“I also encouraged them to guide the youth against disrespectful conduct and called on them to support President William Ruto’s bid for a second term, citing key development projects and appointments under his administration,” the National Assembly Speaker wrote.