Kakamega Senator Dr. Bonny Khalwale has alleged that Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is responsible for the challenges currently faced by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party in various regions. Speaking at a tree planting event at Shamberere National Polytechnic in Kakamega County, Khalwale claimed that Gachagua, aspiring to be president after William Ruto’s term ends in 2032, is utilizing young UDA politicians across the country to create discord and unsettle key party figures, aiming to clear his path to leadership.
Khalwale emphasized that holding the position of Deputy President should not lead to an overwhelming political ambition, urging Gachagua to refrain from manipulating young UDA politicians to cause chaos within the party. He warned Gachagua that the Luhya Nation, with a population of 7 million, will not tolerate cheap political tactics, emphasizing their determination to assume leadership in 2032. Khalwale assured Gachagua that the presidency in 2032 would not be his, but rather it would belong to the Luhya nation, which has long sacrificed for other communities.
The senator criticized Gachagua for allegedly undermining the party’s unity and urged him to be prepared for a direct confrontation in his pursuit of political plans. Khalwale also highlighted Gachagua’s involvement in advocating for the rights of coffee farmers nationwide. He called upon Luhya leaders to support the revival of stalled sugar companies in the region, criticizing Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa for opposing efforts to rejuvenate cane farming.
Expressing concern over political conflicts, Khalwale urged the police to avoid confrontations with politicians. He accused Governor Barasa of suppressing Mumias East MP Salasya’s voice and criticized Barasa’s leadership, claiming he is the county’s worst manager for failing to address broader issues affecting the region. Khalwale addressed the Lugari forest land scandal, cautioning the public against falling victim to scammers selling the land illegally and urged authorities to apprehend the culprits.
In response to the high cost of living, Khalwale defended the government and encouraged Kenyans to bear with the situation, attributing it to global trends. He assured the public that President William Ruto’s government is working to streamline the country for a better future.
By Wycliffe Andabwa