National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on Kenyans, particularly the youth, to shun divisive politics and embrace unity, stressing that the country’s prosperity depends on collective effort.
Speaking at the funeral of Mzee Isaac Ngugi Ichung’wah, father of Kikuyu MP and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, in Kiambu County, Wetang’ula eulogised the late patriarch as a man of wisdom, humility, and service to the nation.
He urged leaders, particularly those identified with Generation Z, to prioritise peace and cohesion, noting that inclusivity remains central to Kenya’s democratic growth and prosperity.
“This country belongs to all of us. Let us embrace one another as brothers and sisters and work together for the good of our nation,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker also appealed to young leaders to respect their seniors and learn from their experiences, emphasising that leadership is a shared responsibility that transcends generations.
“Age is a transient stage in the life of a human being. The old man we are laying to rest today was once a member of Generation Z of his time. His widow was a beautiful queen in her youth. We must build a Kenya where the young, the middle-aged, and the elderly all know they have their space,” he emphasized.
“Each generation has its time, its space, and its responsibility. And our responsibility is to build one cohesive nation. We discuss issues and matters that bring unity and harmony among our people,” he added.
Quoting Tanzanian poet and writer Shaaban bin Robert in Kusadikika, Wetang’ula underscored the importance of rejecting words that sow hatred and discord.
“We must erase from our vocabularies words that breed hate, anxiety, and division. Instead, we should nurture a Kenya where love, peace, and unity bind us together,” he said.
Wetang’ula went on to praise Majority Leader Ichung’wah, describing him as one of the country’s most dedicated and principled leaders.
“Since we started this Parliament, you cannot have a greater Majority Leader. He is astute, attentive to detail, accommodating, yet firm on what he believes is right. That is true leadership,” he noted.
The Speaker urged Ichung’wah to carry on his father’s legacy of wisdom and integrity by fostering unity both within Parliament and his family.
In his tribute, Wetang’ula hailed the late Mzee Ngugi as a nationalist whose values of patriotism and inclusivity shaped not only his family but also the wider community.
The funeral service was attended by President Dr. William Ruto, Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, Governors led by Cecile Mbarire, MPs led by Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, and other national and county leaders.
