National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on leaders from Western Kenya serving in senior government roles to step up efforts in alleviating poverty in the region, questioning their effectiveness despite holding influential positions.
On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, following an inspection of the modern Chwele Market in Sirisia Constituency with President William Ruto, Wetang’ula noted that the region has yet to feel significant benefits from the appointments made by the Head of State.
He highlighted that many leaders from the Mulembe community hold key positions as Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries, but their presence has not translated into meaningful improvements in the living standards of ordinary citizens.
“Rampant poverty hinders development and economic progress in our region. Today, while accompanying President William Ruto to inspect the modern Chwele Market in Sirisia Constituency, I urged Western region leaders in senior government positions to use their influence to uplift more people out of poverty,” Wetang’ula said.
He added that continued lack of visible impact could weaken public confidence in the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Wetang’ula emphasized that residents will judge the government by improved livelihoods rather than political appointments alone, noting that support for the President’s second-term ambitions will depend on tangible benefits for citizens.
Despite the critique, Wetang’ula expressed optimism that ongoing projects, such as the Chwele Market, could stimulate economic activity.
He urged county authorities to complement national efforts by improving infrastructure, including road networks and security lighting, to maximize the market’s potential.
Several prominent Western Kenya leaders occupy top positions in the Kenya Kwanza government. These include Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cooperatives and SMEs CS Wycliffe Oparanya, and Environment CS Deborah Mulongo.
Other Principal Secretaries from the region include James Muhati (Economic Planning), Beatrice Inyangala (Higher Education and Research), Juma Mukhwana (Industry), Susan Mang’eni (MSMEs Development), and Patrick Mariro (Defence). Edward Kisiang’ani also serves as a Senior Advisor on the President’s Council of Economic Advisors.
Wetang’ula’s remarks underscore the growing pressure on Western Kenya leaders to deliver results, particularly as political expectations rise ahead of future elections.
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