National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged Kenyans who have not registered as voters to do so before the exercise closes, saying failure to register could deny them a chance to influence the country’s direction in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a meeting with Bungoma stakeholders at Mabanga FTC on Saturday, Wetang’ula said many Kenyans with national identification cards were still not registered as voters despite civic education campaigns and repeated reminders by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
“Your vote is your greatest asset for ensuring your voice is heard at the election, and it really matters the most,” noted Wetang'ula.
He urged those who had not registered to take advantage of the opportunity and complete the process as soon as possible.
“There are so many ID-holding Kenyans amongst us who are yet to register as voters. Please make an effort to do so as soon as possible.”
Wetang’ula said the 2027 election would also give Kenyans an opportunity to protect the development projects and gains made under President William Ruto’s administration.
He pointed to Bungoma as one of the counties that had benefited from what he described as efforts by the Ruto administration to spread development projects across the country.
“We have gained a lot as Bungoma County, and we stand to gain even more by maintaining the current development trajectory by having this Government re-elected under President Ruto,” said Wetang'ula.
Wetang’ula warns against political violence
The Speaker also called on Kenyans to reject ethnic politics and political goonism, warning that violence could undermine both the electoral process and national security.
“Please don't be swayed into this dangerous culture of violence and political goonism. The perpetrators of this mean no good to the country,” said Wetang'ula.
His remarks came as Bungoma leaders renewed calls for him to prepare for a bid to succeed President Ruto in 2032.
Bungoma Senator and Senate Majority Whip Wafula Wakoli said Wetang’ula, as the country’s third-in-command, was well placed to lead the Western region’s push for the presidency.
“You are a very selfless man, a gifted leader and a dedicated statesman, and we believe that Kenya will be safest in your hands after President Ruto,” said Senator Wakoli.
Residents used the meeting to raise concerns over local development, including calls to speed up the upgrading of Bungoma Town and complete ongoing projects.
The gathering also brought together business and opinion leaders, residents, county assembly leaders and community groups for discussions on issues affecting the county and the country.
Wetang’ula also recalled his childhood years growing up around Bungoma Town, where he met some of his former friends from his childhood and school days.