The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Eugene Wamalwa, the leader of the Democratic Action Party Kenya (DAP-K), has called upon National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula to step down from his position as the leader of the Ford Kenya Party, citing concerns about his involvement in partisan politics.
Wamalwa’s remarks come in the wake of a recent incident on Friday, March 22, where supporters of Speaker Wetangula clashed with those of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya during the burial ceremony of Sandra Nyongesa, the late wife of former Nominated MCA Phillip Nyongesa.
According to Wamalwa, Wetangula’s engagement in what he terms as ‘petty partisan politics’ has tarnished his image as a national leader and the third-in-command. He urged Wetangula to prioritize the dignity of his high office by relinquishing his position within the Ford Kenya Party, highlighting the incompatibility of simultaneously holding the roles of Speaker and Party Leader.
“In holding both the position of Speaker and Party Leader, which necessitates engagement in such embarrassing political confrontations, is clearly unsustainable,” remarked Wamalwa on Social platform X.
The clash during the Friday political event, which required police intervention to restore order, marked the first public appearance where Wetangula and Natembeya shared a platform. The strained relationship between the two leaders has been evident, particularly regarding discussions about unity within the Mulembe nation and the battle for leadership in the region.
Wetangula emphasized the need for peace, stating, “There should be no sacred cows; Kenya is a peaceful country. If we want to grow, we must respect each other, even during mourning.”
Natembeya, on the other hand, expressed determination to fight for the liberation of their community, stating, “They think by bringing violence, they can halt this process. This is just the beginning of the fight until our community is liberated… If they want to bring war, let them bring it. The plane is still on the runway.”
The incident in Trans Nzoia appears to have deepened the divide between opposing factions, prompting calls for peace and order from various quarters, including Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha.
With tensions quelled, the burial ceremony proceeded hastily, with the family laying their loved one to rest amidst the strained atmosphere.
