Parliament erupts in ‘ni faya si faya’ chants as Leo Wa Muthende takes oath
Mbeere North MP Leonard wa Muthende signs a book during orientation in Parliament on Tuesday. Photo/PBU
Parliament was alive with energy on Tuesday afternoon as Leo Wa Muthende took his oath, escorted by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo.
MPs broke into ni faya si faya chants, which nearly drowned out the swearing-in of Ugenya MP Moses Omondi.
For several minutes, the chamber reverberated with calls of Mr Wa Muthende’s name as he signed the oath book, highlighting his political importance.
His presence is seen as critical for cementing alliances and influencing key legislative decisions affecting Embu County.
Among the spectators were Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, who watched from the gallery, underscoring the significance of the moment.
After the ceremony, Mr Ichung’wah did not hold back, criticising United Opposition leaders for lacking vision.
“Honourable Speaker, there is a colleague who told me Wamuthende amemuonyesha Wamunyoro fire,” he said, describing the upcoming November 27 by-elections as a mini General Election.
Minority Leader Junet Mohamed offered his own perspective, noting, “Kwa group mambo ni different.”
He added, “When I saw Hon Ichung’wah and Aaron Cheruiyot campaigning in Kasipul, it was clear that Kenyans want unity and support the broad-based government.”
Mr Mohamed did not spare the Democratic Party Leader, former Speaker Justin Muturi, accusing him of lowering the dignity of his former office.
He also took a swipe at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, saying he needs to “go back to the drawing board and become a village elder in Mathira.”
The newly sworn-in MPs will have only two days in office before the National Assembly takes a long recess until February 2026.
