Speaking during a discussion aired on his online channel, Manyora argued that Wetang’ula has been too soft on the Executive, unlike past Speakers who stood firm and protected the independence of Parliament.
According to Manyora, history remembers former Speakers such as Kenneth Marende and Francis ole Kaparo for their impartiality and courage in handling the House.
“When you compare Wetang’ula to Marende, there is no competition. When you remember the strong ‘Order! Order!’ of Kaparo, you could see a real Speaker. Today, the current leadership bends over to please the Executive,” Manyora said.
Manyora reminded Wetang’ula of how Marende managed Parliament during President Mwai Kibaki’s tenure. At that time, Kibaki’s side had fewer MPs than the ODM side led by Raila Odinga.
Even though Marende had been elected on an ODM ticket, he steered Parliament with neutrality and did not use his position to collapse Kibaki’s government.
“Marende had the power to frustrate Kibaki, but he chose to serve the country by being fair. That is what leadership means. He showed that the Speaker’s chair is a neutral ground, not a political office,” Manyora explained.
The analyst said Wetang’ula should reflect on this history and resist the temptation of working as an agent of the Executive.
He argued that a Speaker’s duty is to defend the Constitution and ensure fairness, even if it means disappointing powerful figures in government.
Manyora further noted that if Marende’s firm approach were applied today, MPs crossing the floor to other parties would risk losing their seats.
Instead, under Wetang’ula, he claimed the House leadership acts with speed to implement the Executive’s wishes without question.
“Kenya needs Speakers who can rise above politics. Wetang’ula should learn from those who came before him. The Speaker’s seat belongs to the nation, not the government,” Manyora concluded.
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