Fresh concerns have emerged over the neutrality of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, as his recent political engagements continue to stir debate on the independence of constitutional offices and the separation of powers.

Wetang’ula, Kenya’s third-ranking state official, has in recent weeks taken an active role in political mobilisation campaigns, using public forums to rally support for the Kenya Kwanza administration while fiercely criticising opposition leaders.

His remarks and presence at pro-government events have intensified scrutiny over whether he is compromising the impartiality required of his office.

During several stops across coastal counties, Wetang’ula has delivered highly charged speeches echoing Kenya Kwanza’s agenda and countering the opposition’s “One Term” campaign led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and other critics of President William Ruto.

Clad in a cap branded with the acronym “TUTAM”—a clear retort to the opposition’s “Wantam” slogan—Wetang’ula left little doubt about where his political loyalties lie.

At a Sunday church service in Kwale County, he urged Kenyans to reject ethnic-based politics, cautioning against a return to division and instability.

“We must never allow our country to descend into the darkness of ethnic clashes and political intolerance,” he said. “The horror of 2007 is still fresh in our minds. We cannot afford to go back there.”

He called for unity and national cohesion, urging citizens to view Kenya’s diversity as a strength. “We are one nation, one people, bound by a common future,” he said.

Wetang’ula also framed President Ruto’s election as an act of divine will, saying: “Leadership comes from God. No force can stand against His will. The President’s victory was nothing short of divine intervention.”

He spoke about his own political journey, dating back to 1992, attributing his rise to public service and divine guidance. He also urged religious leaders to remain active in shaping moral values, especially among the youth. “Our children are the ones who will carry this country forward. Let’s anchor them in values that will unite and uplift Kenya,” he added.

However, Wetang’ula’s growing political presence has raised red flags among legal experts and civil society groups, who argue that his actions undermine the independence of Parliament and weaken public confidence in constitutional institutions.

A commentary by the East Africa Centre for Law and Justice warned that closer ties between Parliament and the Executive are threatening the institution’s autonomy, reducing it to an extension of the ruling party rather than a check on power.

Martin Oloo of Bunge la Mwananchi in Mombasa questioned Wetang’ula’s frequent appearances at government-aligned rallies. “He heads an entire arm of government. His core responsibility lies with Parliament, not State House. When the Speaker is seen to champion Executive interests publicly, it undermines the system of checks and balances,” said Oloo.

Under Article 94 of the Constitution, Parliament holds legislative authority and is tasked with oversight over the Executive. As the Speaker, Wetang’ula is expected to defend the institution’s independence and neutrality.

Yet his return to overt political activity, even after stepping down from leadership of Ford Kenya when he became Speaker, has drawn comparisons to past leaders. Many have pointed to former Speaker Kenneth Marende, who during his term in the Grand Coalition government, was widely viewed as a symbol of restraint and impartiality.

Grace Atieno, a Mombasa resident, said: “What we are seeing is a gradual weakening of constitutional institutions. If the person supposed to keep the Executive in check is out campaigning for the President, how can the public trust that Parliament is independent? Even the optics are troubling.”

Supporters of Wetang’ula maintain that the Speaker has every right to address national issues and attend official events, especially those involving public participation or legislative outreach.

But speculation continues to grow about whether Wetang’ula’s visibility points to future political ambitions—or a more unofficial role in strengthening the ruling coalition’s national support.

On Saturday, July 6, Wetang’ula led national and county leaders on public engagements in Likoni and Jomvu constituencies. He again urged citizens to reject tribal politics and cautioned against entitlement narratives, saying they only hinder national development.

“This is Mombasa’s moment to reclaim its glory—not just as a tourism hub, but as the beating heart of Kenya’s economy,” he said.

He was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and several MPs. Governor Nassir also warned against leaders who revive divisive colonial-era politics, calling for unity and inclusivity.

Wetang’ula closed his remarks with a strong appeal to reject division and build a future grounded in shared goals. “Kenya belongs to all of us. No tribe is greater than the other. No citizen is more Kenyan than the next. We move forward, together. Every voice matters.”