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National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has announced the death of his elder brother, James Mukhwana Wetang’ula, describing him as a humble and disciplined retired teacher who made a lasting impact on his community.

In a statement on Wednesday, Speaker Wetang’ula said the family is mourning the loss of “a teacher of great humility, discipline and wisdom,” noting that Mukhwana had touched many lives through his work in education and mentorship.

“It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of my elder brother, James Mukhwana Wetang’ula. A retired teacher of great humility, discipline and wisdom, James touched many lives,” he said.

Mukhwana was the firstborn son of Mzee Dominic Khaemba Wetang’ula and the late Mama Anna Wetang’ula.

It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of my dear elder brother, Mr. James Mukhwana Wetang’ula.

A retired teacher of great humility, discipline, and wisdom, James touched many lives.

He was the firstborn son of Mzee Dominic Khaemba Wetang’ula and the late Mama Anna… pic.twitter.com/RuenXQZM3t

— Rt.Hon.Dr.Moses Wetang'ula (@HonWetangula) December 10, 2025

He was a twin brother to Virginia Mulongo Sikhoya and sibling to Dorothy Watila, Mary Ongamo, Scolastica Opemo, Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, Fred Wetang’ula and Speaker Wetang’ula.

The Speaker described his late brother as a devoted father, mentor and pillar of the community, adding that his legacy as an educator and family man would endure.

“James was a devoted father, mentor and a pillar in our community. His legacy as an educator and family man remains firmly in our hearts. We kindly ask for your prayers and support as we mourn his passing and honour his life. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he said.

Further details on burial arrangements will be communicated by the family.

In his own tribute, Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi described the loss as painful and deeply unsettling, saying the family remained grateful for the life of the late educator.

He cited 1 Thessalonians 5:18 — “give thanks in all circumstances” — as a source of strength during the bereavement.

“You fought your battles with courage, you ran your race with honour, and you leave behind a legacy that will continue to guide us,” Wanyonyi said, praising his brother’s life of service and resilience.

He described Mwalimu James as a man whose influence would continue to be felt within the family and the wider community.

Mukhwana's death comes less than a year after the family lost their mother, marking another difficult moment for the Wetang’ula family.