Parliament is Not a Puppet: Wetang’ula Defends House Independence Amid Ruto Link Rumors
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has come out guns blazing to defend the integrity of the August House against persistent claims that it has become a “rubber-stamp” for President William Ruto’s administration. Speaking during a candid interview on TV47, Wetang’ula dismissed allegations that he takes orders from State House to tilt parliamentary debates or influence the outcome of contentious legislation. He maintained that throughout his tenure, he has never been cajoled or directed by any individual—including the President—on how to preside over House business.
The Speaker’s remarks are a direct response to mounting public and political criticism regarding the speed and ease with which Executive-backed bills on health, the economy, and infrastructure have sailed through Parliament. Wetang’ula described these aspersions as “baseless,” arguing that those who lose during democratic debates often resort to casting blame on the victors. He emphasized that as an ex-officio member, he neither votes nor initiates debate, but strictly ensures adherence to parliamentary procedures.
“Since I became Speaker, nobody, not even President Ruto, has called me to encourage me, cajole me, or in any way try to influence me… Even if such a call came, I would not accept it,” Wetang’ula stated.
Interestingly, while defending the House from Executive influence, the Speaker also took a swing at his own members during the 2026 Legislative Retreat in Nakuru. Wetang’ula revealed that he has received numerous complaints from senior Executive officials who feel harassed by “administrative paralysis” caused by repetitive parliamentary summons. He noted that some officials are being dragged before up to three different committees to answer the same questions.
According to the Speaker, the most affected officials include Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and TSC Acting CEO Eveleen Mitei. While acknowledging that oversight is a fundamental constitutional duty, Wetang’ula warned that it must be exercised with decorum to avoid the perception of undue pressure. This balancing act highlights the current friction in the “Silicon Savannah’s” political landscape, where Parliament must prove its independence while ensuring the wheels of the Executive do not grind to a halt.