The family of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula is in mourning following the death of his elder brother, retired teacher James Mukhwana Wetang’ula.
News of his passing broke on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, prompting an emotional outpouring of tribute from family, leaders and members of the public who knew him as a principled educator and respected community figure.
Speaker Wetang’ula, while sharing the news through his official X (formerly Twitter) account, painted a picture of a man whose life was rooted in service, humility and discipline.
“With profound sadness, we bid farewell to my elder brother, James Mukhwana Wetang’ula. A man of great character, wisdom, and gentle authority. His years in the classroom shaped generations and left a mark time cannot erase,” Wetang’ula wrote.
He went on to describe him as a steady compass in the family one whose voice mattered, and whose counsel commanded respect.
“He was more than a brother he was a mentor, a guide, and a pillar. We are deeply wounded by his loss and ask for your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this difficult moment,” he added.
The news was also confirmed by Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, who shared a similarly heartfelt message on his Facebook page.
“It breaks my heart to announce the passing of our eldest brother, Mwalimu James Mukhwana Wetang’ula. His courage, conviction and quiet leadership defined him. We shall honour him by living the values he lived by,” Wanyonyi said.
James, the firstborn of the late Mama Anna Wetang’ula and Mzee Dominic Khaemba Wetang’ula, was also a twin to Virginia Mulongo Sikhoya and sibling to a large and well-known family that includes Dorothy Watila, Mary Ongamo, Scolastica Opemo, Fred Wetang’ula, Tim Wanyonyi and Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
Condolences have begun to stream in from leaders, friends and former colleagues. Among those who have publicly mourned him are Trade and Investment PS Dr. Juma Mukhwana, Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo and Bungoma political figure Zachariah Barasa.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family in the coming days.
