Wamuzi News Ke
Former National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi has ignited fierce national debate after urging politicians to drop the title “Honourable,” calling it outdated, deceptive, and undeserved in the current political climate.
Speaking at a governance and ethics summit in Nairobi, Muturi questioned the relevance of the ceremonial label, arguing that the term no longer reflects the behavior or performance of many elected officials in Kenya. He said the title is “a cloak of false dignity” used to shield underperformance and entitlement.
“What honour is there in incompetence, absenteeism, or looting public funds?” Muturi asked. “Let us be judged by our work, not by empty honorifics.”
A Blunt Wake-Up Call
The remarks have sparked immediate reaction from all corners of the political spectrum, exposing deep divisions within the establishment over the culture of leadership and public perception.
Muturi, known for his strict parliamentary discipline during his tenure as Speaker, now says it’s time to reset the standards for public service and strip away what he describes as the “false prestige” associated with political office.
He emphasized that accountability and humility must be the new pillars of public life, adding that elected officials must earn respect through service—not demand it through titles.
Leaders Push Back, Public Backs Reform
Several senior politicians have dismissed Muturi’s statements as grandstanding, while accusing him of seeking political relevance. One high-ranking MP said, “The title ‘Honourable’ is recognized in Commonwealth parliamentary systems—it’s not just about personal image.”
But the backlash hasn’t silenced public interest. On social media, Kenyans have praised Muturi’s boldness, with hashtags like #NoMoreTitles and #EarnRespect trending within hours.
Public watchdogs and civil society groups say Muturi’s message aligns with growing frustration among citizens, who feel alienated from leaders they perceive as disconnected and unaccountable.
Bigger Than a Title: A Symptom of a Broken Culture
Muturi’s comments come at a time of increasing scrutiny of Kenya’s political elite. Lawmakers have recently come under fire for poor attendance in Parliament, lavish allowances, and perceived failure to tackle key national issues such as the cost of living and corruption.
Analysts argue the former Speaker’s remarks are a reflection of deeper systemic problems:
- Erosion of public trust: Surveys show declining faith in elected officials across all major institutions.
- Rise in political apathy: Low voter turnout and youth disengagement have become widespread.
- Demand for fresh leadership: Younger Kenyans are calling for issue-based politics over personality-driven power.
What’s Next?
- Policy Proposals: Muturi hinted that he may support a petition to Parliament to revise standing orders and remove the mandatory use of “Honourable” in official references.
- Potential Legislative Review: Legal experts suggest that the title, while not constitutionally protected, could be dropped through internal parliamentary reforms.
- Civic Campaigns: Activists are calling on the public to stop using the title when addressing underperforming officials.
Conclusion
Justin Muturi’s rejection of the title “Honourable” may appear symbolic, but it has exposed a raw nerve in Kenya’s political culture. His words have touched on a growing national sentiment—one that demands more than prestige from those in power. Whether his call leads to real change or gets buried by the political class will now depend on how seriously the public and institutions respond.
