By KPC Reporter
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged youth in the Western region to acquire National Identification Cards (IDs) and register as voters, stressing that the community’s political influence in the 2027 General Election will hinge on its ability to mobilize numbers.
Speaking at Parliament Buildings during a courtesy call by Members of the Kakamega County Assembly led by nominated MCA Jael Omunyangoli (Sheywe Ward), Wetang’ula challenged grassroots leaders to spearhead civic education campaigns encouraging young people to take up IDs and register with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
“Today, acquiring a National ID is free of charge and without conditions. No young person should lack one. Getting an ID is one of the most critical steps in addressing voter apathy, particularly in our Western region,” Wetang’ula said.
He emphasised that the ID card is the gateway to participation in national decision-making, noting that without it, many youth remain excluded from key civic duties, especially voting.
“Having a voter’s card is central to consolidating our numbers as a region in readiness for 2027, when Western Kenya must showcase its political might,” he added.
The Speaker further called for unity among grassroots leaders, urging them to rise above divisive politics and rally behind a common agenda to strengthen Western Kenya’s position in national affairs.
“As grassroots leaders, you carry the true voice of the people. I urge you to shun retrogressive politics and instead champion unity and development for our region and our nation,” he said.
Wetang’ula commended the delegation’s commitment to working together under the Kenya Kwanza administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), reminding them that collective resolve was the only way to elevate the region’s bargaining power.
“As a region, we have no choice but to be together. To go on a journey, you need a wheel. We must remain united for the future of Western, the future of our country, and the future of generations to come,” he stressed.
He also rallied leaders and voters to remain steadfast as the region prepares for the November 27, 2025, by-elections, which he described as a litmus test of Western Kenya’s unity and political influence.
Ms. Omunyangoli thanked the Speaker for his mentorship, saying many young leaders looked up to him for guidance.
“We thank you, Mr. Speaker, for your warm welcome and wisdom in leadership,” she said.
The meeting was attended by MPs Ben Shinali (Ikolomani), Titus Khamala (Lurambi), Elsie Muhanda (Kakamega Woman Representative) and Bungoma Senator David Wakoli, who all echoed the call for unity and voter mobilisation in the region.