Linda Mwananchi Faction Plans Fresh Court Battle Against Speaker Wetang’ula

A section of opposition leaders under the Linda Mwananchi faction has announced plans to move to court against Moses Wetang’ula following the suspension of Kitutu Chache South MP Antony Kibagendi.

Addressing the media at Parliament Buildings, the leaders—led by Edwin Sifuna—claimed the Speaker and House leadership may have acted in violation of the Constitution by proceeding with the suspension despite an existing court order concerning Kibagendi’s reinstatement.

Sifuna was joined by several lawmakers, including Babu Owino, who strongly criticized the decision. The leaders questioned whether Parliament has the authority to discipline a member over remarks made outside its precincts.

“It is not possible for a Speaker to police what members say outside Parliament. That would be an unreasonable application of the law,” Sifuna stated.

On his part, Owino argued that the suspension undermines the constitutional right to freedom of expression. He maintained that statements made outside Parliament should not be subject to disciplinary action within the House.

“Kibagendi had a right to speech. Freedom of expression is the oxygen of democracy,” Owino said, adding that the move appeared to disregard a court directive.

The lawmakers now say they will file an urgent judicial review application at the High Court, seeking orders to compel the Speaker to comply with the earlier court ruling and to review the 14-day suspension imposed on Kibagendi.

Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo also weighed in, warning that failure to respect court orders could lead to contempt proceedings against the Speaker.

Meanwhile, the suspension followed a motion moved by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, citing the need to protect the dignity and integrity of Parliament. The motion was passed by acclamation under the chairmanship of Temporary Speaker Peter Kaluma.

The unfolding standoff sets the stage for a legal and constitutional battle that could test the limits of parliamentary privilege, freedom of expression, and adherence to court orders in Kenya’s governance system.