John Kiarie elected global president of World Scouts Parliamentary Union
By Kiprono Keileb, November 12, 2025Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie has been elected the new Global President of the World Scouts Parliamentary Union (WSPU), following the conclusion of the WSPU 11th General Assembly held in Nairobi on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
The Executive Committee chose Kiarie to steer the global agenda of the organisation, placing him at the helm of initiatives aimed at advancing sustainable development, creative economy, and climate action.
In his acceptance speech made after the General Assembly on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, Kiarie acknowledged the challenges facing the global community and emphasised the critical role scouting can play in addressing them.
“I come into the office at a time of great global shakeups, a reality in the world today. But there is space for us scouts to put our mark on the global footprint and make it better.” Kiarie said
He further highlighted the importance of leadership in multiple sectors, including government, institutions, religion, family, and society.
“A lot is happening globally, but there is a place for scouting in government, institutions, religion, family and society. We are called to lead. Today, the World is crying, and critical thinkers to make informed decisions are needed & WSPU, in its special place, has a big role to play,” he said.
Kiarie also stressed the need for emotional intelligence and logical problem-solving as essential skills for children and adults globally.
He pointed to femicide as a pressing global issue and observed that effective problem-solving could help avert such crises.
“We currently have a big epidemic of femicide in our society, yet the skill of problem-solving can come in handy to avert such situations,” he stated.
The new WSPU President encouraged delegates to embrace their identities and foster patriotism as a means to confront both local and global challenges.
“There is a great need to refocus and reanchor ourselves to belonging, be proud of who we are, be proud of the family we come from, and to be associated with the organisations that we partner with,” he said.
He concluded by expressing confidence in Africa’s role on the global stage, pledging commitment to the WSPU mission.
“I am more than ready to undertake all the duties and responsibilities that will be bestowed upon me as President, and we shall stand together as one to achieve this mission as scouts,” Kiarie said.
His election marks a significant moment for Kenyan and African leadership in global scouting and parliamentary engagement, promising a renewed focus on development, leadership, and problem-solving across nations.