New Mbeere North MP Leonard Wa Muthende Under Fire for Phone Call During First Parliamentary Sitting
The newly elected Member of Parliament for Mbeere North, Leonard Wa Muthende, has come under scrutiny after being spotted engaged in a lengthy phone call during a parliamentary sitting on his first day in the House.
Wa Muthende, who won the seat on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, narrowly defeated his Democratic Party (DP) rival, Newton Karish, in the by-elections held on Thursday, November 27.
The lawmaker was among a group of newly elected MPs sworn in on Tuesday, December 2, before delivering their maiden speeches on Thursday, December 4. In his address, Wa Muthende expressed gratitude to the UDA leadership and his family for supporting him through a heated campaign.
“To the people of Mbeere North, I say, I made promises, I will stay focused in leading to achieve the goals we set together, including bursary programs, free day secondary schools, fighting for our roads, and legislation. I will be a good steward and ensure that every shilling is spent well to your benefit,” he said, pledging to contribute meaningfully to parliamentary debates and the development of the country.
However, the positive debut was overshadowed when Wa Muthende was observed speaking on his phone while Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro addressed the House. At one point, he ended a call only to receive another, raising concerns over adherence to parliamentary decorum.
Under the Speaker’s Rules, the use of mobile phones during sessions is considered disorderly. The regulations also restrict photography and phone use to designated areas, emphasizing that members and visitors must maintain silence and proper conduct in the chamber and public galleries.
Wa Muthende’s actions have prompted mixed reactions online. Some Kenyans condemned the behaviour as disrespectful and indicative of incompetence, while others described it as a minor lapse for a newcomer adjusting to parliamentary procedures.
John Muli remarked: “When the senior is talking, he is busy on his mobile phone; it’s only a matter of time.” Similarly, Atsenga Ronny commented: “He doesn’t even care what’s being discussed.”
Other critics expressed frustration at the perceived lack of discipline. Ushindi Mark said, “That’s indiscipline. He should not have started this early,” while Geoffrey Odhiambo questioned Wa Muthende’s preparation: “Could it be he didn’t know the rules of the House? This is distraction, indiscipline, and incompetence. Any aspiring leader must research before going for what they want.”
While the incident has sparked debate, some observers suggested it may reflect the learning curve faced by first-time MPs navigating the complex protocols of Parliament.
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New Mbeere North MP Leonard Wa Muthende Under Fire for Phone Call During First Parliamentary Sitting