National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has justified the decision by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Members of Parliament to wear their party colours during the swearing-in of Ol Kalou MP Sammy Douglas Kamau Ngotho.
This ruling came on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, following a point of order raised by Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, who questioned whether the coordinated display of party colours aligned with parliamentary Standing Orders.
Speaker Cites Precedent
Wetang’ula acknowledged that while the House generally prohibits party uniforms, an exception was warranted for this special occasion. He referenced a similar instance when Kiarie himself appeared in UDA colours after a by-election win by Kiambaa MP John Njuguna Wanjiku.
“When Honourable Kawanjiku of Kiambaa won his election, Honourable KJ came wearing UDA colours, and it was allowed because it was a special occasion,” the Speaker stated.
Limits on Party Attire
The Speaker emphasized that this allowance is limited strictly to ceremonial events such as swearing-ins. He warned that wearing party insignia during regular parliamentary sittings would be deemed out of order.
“From today onwards, unless it’s such a special occasion, we do not entertain party uniforms in the House,” Wetang’ula said, adding that party symbols used for agitation in the chamber would not be tolerated.
Opposition Raises Concern, Offers Congratulations
MP John Kiarie expressed concern that a group of 13 MPs dressed in identical green blazers represented a breach of decorum. However, he also congratulated Ngotho on his election success and welcomed him to Parliament.
“The young gentleman won convincingly, and we welcome him to Bunge. Members should, however, observe the Standing Orders guiding their presentation in the House,” Kiarie remarked.
The DCP legislators’ coordinated attire marked a historic moment as Ngotho became the party’s first MP following a decisive victory in the Ol Kalou by-election.
