Wetang’ula calls for responsible use of social media amid misinformation threat
By Joel Masibo, December 10, 2025National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged Kenyans to exercise responsibility and restraint in their use of social media, warning against the dangers of misinformation and harmful rumours.
Wetang’ula made the remarks during a solemn gathering at Mukhaweli Primary School in Khalaba Ward, Bungoma, where he joined the family of Kanduyi Member of Parliament John Makali to mourn the passing of his elder brother, the late Retired Mwalimu Patrick Wafula Makali, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
Mourning Patrick Makali
Addressing mourners, Wetang’ula delivered President William Ruto’s condolence message to the Makali family, alongside generous support from the Head of State, a gesture he said reflects the spirit of unity, compassion, and shared humanity that binds the nation.
Amid the grief, Wetang’ula took the opportunity to reaffirm his commitment to advancing Bungoma’s ambition of attaining city status. He encouraged residents to remain focused on development, noting that achieving such a milestone requires collective effort, patience, and a clear vision for the county’s future.
However, his strongest message of the day was directed at social media users. Wetang’ula cautioned against the reckless spreading of unverified information, specifically addressing recent malicious claims circulating online alleging that Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi had passed away despite undergoing treatment in India.
Responsible social media use
”I also called for responsible use of social media, cautioning against the spread of falsehoods and harmful rumours. I clarified that the Kwanza MP Hon. Ferdinand Wanyonyi is alive and well, despite malicious online claims,” Moses Wetang’ula said via X.
Earlier, Wetang’ula dismissed reports circulating claiming that Kwanza Member of Parliament (MP) Ferdinand Wanyonyi has passed away.
Speaking on the floor of the House on Thursday, December 4, 2025, Wetang’ula clarified the rumours, revealing that the veteran lawmaker had been unwell and recently transferred to India for specialised treatment.
He further told the lawmakers that Wanyonyi was responding well to treatment.
“I want to inform the house that the Hon. Ferdinand Wanyonyi, the member for Kwanza, is unwell. He was in Nairobi Hospital for about a month, and the doctors recommended that we take him to India,” Wetang’ula told the lawmakers.
Meanwhile, Moses Wetang’ula is also thrown into mourning, as his brother James Mukwana’s death was confirmed on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.