Former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wafula Wangamati launched a scathing attack on National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula during a press conference at his Tourist Hotel in Bungoma today, accusing the Wetang’ula family of monopolizing leadership and stalling development in the region.
Addressing a battery of journalists under the mid-morning sun, donning a black cap and a composed demeanor, Wangamati began by expressing gratitude to Bungoma residents for their support during his tenure as governor from 2017 to 2022. He also acknowledged the warm reception he received at a homecoming rally on Friday, where thousands of supporters welcomed him at Bungoma Bus Park.
SERIAL BLACKMAILER
Wangamati wasted no time in targeting Wetang’ula, accusing him of deceiving Bungoma residents with repeated promises of a presidential bid in 2032.
“Mr. Wetang’ula, stop lying to people that you will run for the big seat when you know you are just blackmailing our region to follow you blindly,” he said, questioning the speaker’s commitment to national leadership.
He pointed to Wetang’ula’s history of hedging his bets in coalitions, citing his decision to contest the Bungoma senatorial seat in 2013, 2017, and 2022 despite being a key figure in the CORD, NASA, and Kenya Kwanza coalitions, respectively.
LORD OF POVERTY
The former governor criticized Wetang’ula’s 35-year leadership record, alleging it lacked tangible development for Bungoma.
“Wetang’ula doesn’t want us to talk about him claiming that Luos don’t talk about Raila Odinga, nor Kalenjins about William Ruto, but he forgets those leaders have empowered their regions,” Wangamati said.
He highlighted the Ksh15 billion allocated to Nyanza following Raila Odinga’s handshake with President Ruto, questioning what benefits Wetang’ula, as the third-highest-ranking official in government, had secured for Bungoma.
MERCHANT OF VIOLENCE
Wangamati also condemned Wetang’ula’s alleged threats of violence ahead of the Chwele-Kabuchai ward by-election, where the speaker reportedly warned against voting for non-Ford Kenya candidates.
“We will not be intimidated. We are ready to campaign for the candidate of our choice,” Wangamati declared. He further criticized Wetang’ula for engaging in a public spat with the personal assistant of Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga during a burial in Khachonge, calling it unbecoming of a leader of his stature.
DYNASTIES
In a bold call to action, Wangamati urged Bungoma residents to reject what he termed the “Wetang’ula monarchy,” specifically opposing the potential candidacy of Wetang’ula’s brother, Tim Wetang’ula, for governor.
“We can’t suffer under Wetang’ula and then see him bring his brother from Nairobi to rule us. For development, the Wetang’ulas must go,” he said.
ON THE BALLOT
Wangamati concluded by announcing his candidacy for the 2027 gubernatorial race, vowing to complete flagship projects like the dual carriageway, maternity hospital, scholarship program, and timely payment of county workers.
“I’m back to finish what I started, and no intimidation will stop me,” he asserted.
The press conference marks a significant escalation in the political rivalry between Wangamati and Wetang’ula, setting the stage for a heated battle for Bungoma’s leadership in the coming years.