Political circles in Nairobi are abuzz with rumours that Rarieda MP Hon. (Dr) Paul Otiende Amollo is being positioned to take over as Speaker of the National Assembly from Rt. Hon. (Dr) Moses Masika Wetang’ula.
The speculation, which has dominated social media and WhatsApp groups, suggests the change could happen as early as next week, sending ripples through Parliament barely 15 months before the 2027 General Election.
Unverified reports claim ODM insiders are pushing for the leadership shift, accusing Wetang’ula of bias towards the Executive and running the House like a personal fiefdom. Critics cite recent suspensions of opposition MPs and controversial rulings on key bills as signs he has lost the confidence of many legislators.
Messages circulating online state bluntly that Otiende Amollo is set to replace Wetang’ula, framing the move as a strategic realignment ahead of 2027.
A Senior Counsel and one of Parliament’s sharpest legal minds, Amollo has earned respect across party lines for his deep knowledge of constitutional and parliamentary procedures. He has repeatedly clashed with the current Speaker during debates on major bills and is seen by many as a neutral, principled figure capable of steering a fractious House.
Amollo has previously downplayed personal ambitions, insisting he will defend his Rarieda seat in 2027. Yet his expertise makes him an attractive candidate for the top job.
Elected Speaker in 2022, Wetang’ula was initially viewed as a unifying choice. However, growing criticism from opposition ranks accuses him of being too close to the Executive and sidelining dissenting voices. According to the same whispers, he is already being primed for a senior Cabinet Secretary post in the next government.
If the move succeeds, it could significantly alter power dynamics. Insiders point to State House spin doctors as the possible architects of the rumour. Not seeing any realistic path to rewarding the Luo community with the Deputy President slot, they have instead settled on a Luo candidate of consummate credentials – Otiende Amollo – who also commands genuine goodwill across both sides of the floor.
– Boost for ODM: Installing a respected ODM figure as Speaker might strengthen the party’s influence in House business and future coalition talks.
– Strategic Calculation: The change could represent a clever political manoeuvre by President Ruto to broaden his base or neutralise key opposition voices.
– Potential Divisions: Analysts warn the rumour may also aim to create tension between communities, particularly Luo and Luhya blocs.
Importantly, the Speaker is elected by MPs, not appointed. Any change would require either resignation or a formal motion, setting the stage for a high-stakes parliamentary battle.
Otiende Amollo is yet to comment on the claims, and no official motion has been tabled. Parliament records still list Wetang’ula as the sitting Speaker.
In Kenya’s unpredictable political arena, today’s rumour often becomes tomorrow’s reality. Whether this leadership shake-up materialises or fades away, one thing is certain: the fierce contest for 2027 has already begun in earnest.
The coming days will show if this is just grapevine chatter or the start of a major realignment in the National Assembly.
