The Speaker of Kenya’s National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, and Westlands Member of Parliament (MP) Tim Wanyonyi are mourning the loss of their beloved mother, Anne Wetang’ula. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi confirmed the sad news on Friday, December 20, via his official social media accounts.
“The passing on this morning of Khukhu Anne Nanyama Wetang’ula, the mother of Rt Hon Moses Wetang’ula, Speaker of the National Assembly, and Hon Tim Wanyonyi, MP for Westlands, has plunged the Parliament of Kenya and indeed, the entire country into deep mourning,” Kingi announced.
He described Mama Anne as a matriarch who left an indelible mark on society, raising a family of notable leaders and mentoring many throughout her life. Kingi extended his condolences to the family and prayed for God’s grace to help them endure the loss.
President William Ruto also sent a heartfelt message of condolence, honoring Mama Anne as a progressive and caring woman who raised her children with strong values. “Our condolences to Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Mheshimiwa Timothy Wanyonyi for the loss of your dear mother. Anne Nanyama was a progressive, responsible, and caring woman who raised upright children. May God grant comfort to the family, friends, and the people of Bungoma at this sad time,” he stated.
Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka joined other leaders in paying tribute, remembering Mama Anne as a devout Christian and a pillar of her community. “Mama Anne was a devout Catholic who dedicated much of her life to selflessly serving the church and fostering a strong moral foundation among children,” Lusaka said, adding that her faith and commitment distinguished her as an inspiration to many.
The Wetang’ula family has faced similar tragedy before. On May 15, 2020, they lost their brother Tony Waswa Wetang’ula, who succumbed to a long illness at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi. Tony, who served as an aide to MP Tim Wanyonyi, passed away just days after Wetang’ula visited ailing Kabuchai MP Lusweti Muko at Karen Hospital.
Mama Anne Nanyama Wetang’ula’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the nation. Leaders and citizens alike continue to celebrate her legacy as a devoted mother, mentor, and beacon of hope for her family and community.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
