Wetang’ula urges MPs to strengthen oversight, ensure prudent use of public resources

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged Members of Parliament to discharge their oversight responsibilities diligently, describing effective scrutiny of government actions as a key measure of their service to Kenyans.

Addressing lawmakers at the conclusion of a legislative retreat in Naivasha on Thursday, Wetang’ula called on MPs to ensure the prudent use of public resources and faithful implementation of government policies aimed at improving service delivery.

“Many of the issues tackled during this retreat touched on education, health, security, infrastructure and agriculture. I encourage you not to fear oversight of the Government,” Wetang’ula said.

He noted that President William Ruto has consistently supported parliamentary accountability, highlighting the administration’s facilitation of Cabinet Secretaries appearing before Parliament to answer lawmakers’ questions.

Quoting former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Wetang’ula encouraged MPs to stay focused on their legislative mandate.

“You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks,” he said, urging members to persevere in serving their constituencies with determination.

The Speaker stressed the importance of thorough interrogation of Cabinet Secretaries, identifying gaps where they exist, and acknowledging areas where ministries are performing well, as part of a balanced approach to governance.

Echoing the Speaker, Leader of the Majority Party Kimani Ichungw’ah urged MPs to continue following up on issues within their legislative mandate beyond the retreat.

“Oversight should not end with this retreat. Members should avail themselves every Wednesday for meaningful oversight,” Ichungw’ah said, noting that Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen is scheduled to appear before the House on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

He added that CS Murkomen will be expected to brief MPs on the state of national security and the government’s preparedness ahead of the next electoral period.

The Majority Leader described the retreat as well-organised, with insightful presentations by Cabinet Secretaries and senior government officials. He encouraged MPs to continue providing constructive scrutiny to help shape practical and impactful policies.

Ichungw’ah also reminded lawmakers that all MPs have a constitutional mandate to conduct oversight and should not take offense when challenged to do so.

With the 13th Parliament entering its final phase, he stressed the urgency of addressing constituents’ needs, including ensuring inclusivity in budget allocations.

Deputy Minority Whip Mark Mwenje praised the retreat for recording the highest attendance in National Assembly workshop history and commended Ichungw’ah for leading robust oversight discussions.

Speaker Wetang’ula concluded by commending National Assembly Clerk Samuel Njoroge for successfully organising the retreat and thanked service providers and stakeholders who supported the conference.