Wetang’ula pays tribute to MP Malulu; dismisses Kenya’s fallout with African countries

The National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has led Members of Parliament in mourning the late Malava MP, Moses Malulu Injendi, who passed away after a short illness.

The three-term legislator succumbed earlier this week after spending a month in hospital.

His passing has been met with deep sorrow, especially in Parliament, where he was respected for his calm demeanor, legislative expertise, and dedication to the people of Malava Constituency.

Speaking at the late MP’s residence in South C, Nairobi, Speaker Wetang’ula eulogized Injendi as a leader of integrity and a unifier who played a significant role in shaping parliamentary policies.

“Malulu Injendi was one of the most respected Members of Parliament, known for his dignity, commitment to House proceedings, and dedication to committee work. As Vice Chair of the Committee on Education, he played a key role in shaping policies that benefited the country,” Wetang’ula said.

Other MPs who gathered to console Injendi’s family described him as a selfless leader who worked tirelessly to uplift his constituents and foster unity within Parliament. Many acknowledged his commitment to serving Kenya without engaging in unnecessary political conflicts.

“He was a pacifist, a leader who spoke in a way that brought people together. Throughout my time as Speaker, I have never heard of Malulu Injendi being in conflict with any member,” Wetang’ula added.

His colleagues in the August House described him as a voice of reason, one who consistently advocated for policies that improved the education sector and addressed the needs of the people he represented.

Parliament has pledged its full support to the bereaved family as they prepare for his burial, which is scheduled for March 4 at his Malava home, Kakamega County. The funeral is expected to draw political leaders from across the country who wish to pay their last respects to a leader who left an indelible mark on Kenya’s legislative landscape.

Africa’s Leadership and Kenya’s Role

Even as the country mourns the loss of one of its legislators, Speaker Wetang’ula has emphasized the importance of African unity and leadership following the outcome of the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson election.

Kenya’s candidate, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, lost in his bid to become the AUC Chairperson, a development that Wetang’ula acknowledged with a mix of disappointment and resolve.

“We have been on tenterhooks for the past week, praying for and supporting the candidature of our brother, Raila Amolo Odinga, to become the Chairperson of the African Union Commission. His candidature was not just his; it was the candidature of the Republic of Kenya and its people,” he stated.

Despite the setback, Wetang’ula reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to the African Union and the broader vision of African economic and social transformation.

“Africa is the richest continent in the world, yet it is home to the poorest people. We look forward to a day when the immense wealth embedded in our continent will be reflected in the prosperity of its people,” he remarked.

He further called on the newly elected AUC Chairperson, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Yusuf Abdi Muhammad, to embrace inclusivity and work with all African nations, regardless of who voted for him.

“Africa should not just be on the agenda of world leadership we must sit at the table of world leadership. We should not merely be invited to where global leaders gather; instead, we must invite others to join us at the leadership table because we rightfully belong there,” Wetang’ula added.

No Political Fallout from AUC Election Outcome, Says Wetang’ula

Amid growing speculation that the African Union Commission election results could cause political rifts in Kenya, Speaker Wetang’ula dismissed any claims that the outcome would affect governance and service delivery.

“I do not know, and I don’t think so, because the commitment to friendship, political realization, and camaraderie above all, the understanding that Kenya needs all of us to contribute to the betterment of its people is not built on quicksand. It is a solid foundation that will propel this country forward,” he said.

Wetang’ula emphasized that political competition should not hinder national unity and development.

“After elections, these leaders have demonstrated to the country that the contest was about choosing a leader. Once a leader is chosen, we set aside our differences, unite, and focus on the future of our country and the well-being of its people,” he noted.

The Speaker reiterated Kenya’s focus on social transformation, urging leaders to prioritize service delivery over political rivalry.

“We seek social transformation in Kenya. We want Kenyans to live better lives tomorrow than they do today, and that is the prayer of every one of us,” he concluded.