Kakamega Senator Bonny Khalwale has accused Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala of destroying the UDA party in Western Kenya. In a bold statement, Khalwale claimed that UDA has lost its influence in key counties like Kakamega and Busia.
Speaking in an unofficial video shared by the Kenyan Vigilante on X, Khalwale alleged that there are no functional UDA offices in the region. He blamed Gachagua and Malala for mishandling the party’s activities and alienating its supporters in Western Kenya.
According to Khalwale, the two leaders allegedly recruited youths and gave them money to run UDA offices. However, he claimed that the initiative failed as the youths abandoned their responsibilities and turned to drug use.“They spoiled the UDA party in Western Kenya,” Khalwale said, accusing the duo of poor leadership that led to the downfall of the party’s structures in the region.
The Senator’s comments highlight the ongoing challenges within UDA as it tries to solidify its presence in Western Kenya, a region traditionally considered an opposition stronghold. Khalwale’s remarks also underline internal divisions within the party and dissatisfaction with its leadership strategies.
While these allegations remain unverified, they have sparked debate about UDA’s performance in areas outside its traditional strongholds. The accusations may put pressure on the party’s leadership to address the concerns and rebuild its presence in Western Kenya.
The video has generated mixed reactions, with some supporting Khalwale’s claims and others calling for unity within the party. UDA has yet to respond to the allegations, but the controversy underscores the need for stronger party structures and leadership to maintain support across the country.
This incident adds to the growing political discourse around the upcoming elections and the ability of major parties to secure and retain influence in all regions. For UDA, the focus may now shift to resolving internal issues and reclaiming lost ground in Western Kenya.
By Kenyans