NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 10 – National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has cautioned young politicians seeking the presidency against rushing into the race, arguing that the country’s highest office requires extensive political experience and a proven record of public service.

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In remarks that appeared directed at Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who has stepped up political mobilisation in Western Kenya as he positions himself for the 2027 presidential race, Wetang’ula said State House should not be pursued without first demonstrating leadership at other levels of government.

“You cannot wake up today and say you want to be president without any track record,” Mr Wetang’ula said on Sunday at his home in Bungoma, where he hosted grassroots leaders from Bumula Constituency.

The Speaker argued that Kenya’s former presidents followed lengthy political careers that prepared them for the responsibilities of national leadership.

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“Our former presidents had to walk long political journeys that equipped them with diverse experience to occupy State House and manage the affairs of the country and beyond,” he said.

Wetang’ula cited Kenya’s first president Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta and President William Ruto as examples of leaders who held various political positions before ascending to the presidency.

His remarks come as political activity intensifies in Western Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Election, with Mr Sifuna increasingly positioning himself as a national political player.

The Nairobi senator has been associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement, which has been used to popularise his political agenda through rallies and grassroots engagements in Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties, among other parts of the country.

Wetang’ula urged those aspiring to the presidency to first build their political credentials and gain the experience necessary to govern the country.

At the same time, the Speaker said the Luhya community was closer than ever to producing a president, urging the community to adopt a strategic approach to national politics.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya