Newly Elected Mbeere North MP Faces Backlash After Phone Call in Parliament
In his speech, Wa Muthende pledged to focus on development initiatives, including bursary programs, free day secondary schools, road improvements, and responsible financial management
By : Mweru Mbugua
Leonard “Leo” Wa Muthende, the newly elected Member of Parliament (MP) for Mbeere North, has sparked public debate after being seen engaged in a phone conversation during parliamentary proceedings on his first day
Wa Muthende, who won the seat on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, narrowly defeated his Democratic Party (DP) rival Newton Karish in by-elections held on November 27
He was sworn in on December 2 and delivered his maiden speech on December 4, where he thanked UDA leadership, his family, and the electorate for their support
In his speech, Wa Muthende pledged to focus on development initiatives, including bursary programs, free day secondary schools, road improvements, and responsible financial management
“I will be a good steward and ensure that every shilling is spent well to your benefit,” he said
However, while Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro addressed the assembly, Wa Muthende was seen taking a long phone call and later receiving another call. The incident drew criticism, as MPs are expected to remain attentive during sessions
According to parliamentary rules, using mobile phones in the chamber during proceedings is considered disorderly
Public reactions were mixed. Some Kenyans condemned the act as a breach of parliamentary decorum, while others dismissed it as a minor lapse for a first-time MP
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John Muli commented, “When the senior is talking, he is busy on his mobile phone; it’s a matter of time.” Atsenga Ronny added, “He doesn’t even care what’s being discussed”
Others expressed concerns about his preparedness for leadership, citing indiscipline and distraction
Separately, Wa Muthende’s election has been legally challenged by two Embu voters, who argue that inconsistencies in his name on official records Leonard Wa Muthende Njeru versus Leo Wa Muthende Njeru may affect the validity of the November 27 by-election
The court has been petitioned to nullify the election and order a fresh vote in Mbeere North
