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Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has called on President William Ruto to provide clarity regarding the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Amani National Congress (ANC) merger, emphasizing the need for Western Kenya’s inclusion in the government’s political roadmap ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking candidly, Khalwale, who also serves as Senate Majority Whip, expressed concerns about the lack of communication and understanding surrounding the merger, particularly in relation to the Luhya community’s role in the political partnership. He pointed out that while regions like Mount Kenya and Nyanza have clear directions regarding their political alignment with the President, Western Kenya remains uncertain about its stake in the arrangement.
“From the bottom of my heart, we want our people to move with you. If they must walk with you, they must first understand you,” Khalwale said during a recent address. He underscored that Western Kenya’s significant population of over eight million cannot be sidelined in discussions about the nation’s political future.
Khalwale urged the leadership of both UDA and ANC to engage the people of Western Kenya directly, explaining the implications of the merger and its benefits. He argued that leaving the region in the dark about political developments could lead to disenfranchisement and erode trust.
“Your Excellency, we have seen you sign a pact with ANC and UDA, but the leadership of the two parties has never come to tell us what they are doing and where they are taking us. That is not the way to leave people,” Khalwale remarked.
Last week, the UDA-ANC merger marked a historic milestone in Kenya’s political landscape, consolidating the two parties under one banner. The move is viewed as a strategic effort to strengthen President Ruto’s position ahead of the 2027 polls. However, the lack of clarity about the merger’s impact on Western Kenya has raised questions about equitable representation and the region’s political future.
Khalwale stressed that Western Kenya’s participation in national politics must be clearly outlined to avoid feelings of marginalization. “We want clarity on how we are doing politics with the Luhya nation because we are eight million people who cannot be taken for granted,” he stated.
As the political landscape evolves, Khalwale’s call for transparency highlights the importance of inclusivity and dialogue in fostering national unity and trust in governance.
