"We will Deal With you Squarely." UDA Senator Vows to Side Opposition Against President Ruto

Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has warned President William Ruto that Luhya support in the 2027 General Election is not automatic, arguing that political loyalty must be earned through consultation, tangible development, inclusive leadership, and consistent engagement with grassroots voters.

Speaking on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Eregi village in Idakho South, Ikolomani Constituency, the outspoken senator said he played a central role in mobilising Western Kenya behind Ruto and therefore deserved respect, dialogue, and recognition.

Khalwale insisted that he made heavy personal and political sacrifices for the President, claiming he was later sidelined and removed from key leadership roles simply for demanding talks on the long term political and economic future of the Luhya community.

He argued that no leader should expect unconditional support, stressing that voters must clearly understand what development gains, opportunities, and policy benefits they receive before being asked to back any candidate for two consecutive presidential terms.

His remarks followed his dramatic removal as Senate Majority Whip after Kenya Kwanza accused him of breaching party discipline by supporting DAP K candidate Seth Panyako during the hotly contested Malava by election.

The ruling coalition replaced Khalwale with Bungoma Senator David Wafula Wakoli, with leaders such as Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei openly criticising him for defying UDA positions and campaigning alongside Eugene Wamalwa and Governor George Natembeya.

Since losing the whip position, Khalwale has intensified criticism of President Ruto’s administration, accusing it of marginalising Western Kenya, ignoring local leaders, and failing to adequately reward communities that supported the government in 2022.

The senator has hinted at forming a new party ahead of the 2027 Kakamega gubernatorial race, a move expected to reshape Western Kenya politics significantly.