Ruto–Moi unity should inspire region to unite, Western leaders say

Western Kenya leaders have welcomed the political cooperation between President William Ruto and KANU chairman Gideon Moi, terming the move as a signal for a new era of unity and inclusive politics in the country.

Led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and President's aide Farouk Kibet, the leaders said that the partnership between Ruto and Moi should inspire leaders from Western Kenya to set aside divisions for the sake of development.

Mudavadi said that there is no reason for the community in Western to remain divided if President Ruto and Gideon Moi from different political backgrounds can work together.

“We have seen President Ruto and Gideon Moi unite for the sake of the country. Let us also unite as Western leaders and speak in one voice for development,” Mudavadi said.

Other leaders included Ikolomani MP Bernard Shinali and his Lurambi counterpart Titus Khamala.

They spoke during a Sunday service at the African Church of the Holy Spirit in Tumbeni, Malava.

The leaders also asked the UDA party to take disciplinary action against Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale for endorsing DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako instead of the party’s flag bearer David Ndakwa.

Mudavadi described Khalwale’s actions as indiscipline and betrayal of the coalition’s unity.

"You cannot claim loyalty to President Ruto while campaigning for his opponent,” Mudavadi said.

He added that leadership comes with responsibility and respect for party positions.

Mudavadi urged residents to support the government’s agenda by backing UDA candidate in the upcoming Malava parliamentary by-election scheduled for November 27, warning that opposition-backed candidates could derail local development projects.

"Party loyalty is not negotiable. If you are in Kenya Kwanza, you must support Kenya Kwanza candidates. You can’t play both sides,” Farouk said.

Farouk said the government had shown goodwill to the region through key appointments and projects and asked residents to reciprocate by supporting the President’s team.

Shinali, said the cooperation between Ruto and Moi should serve as a lesson to Western leaders to end internal wrangles and work together.

"Other regions unite and claim national positions. We must do the same,” Shinali said.

“The Luhya community will not settle for anything less than the deputy president’s position in 2027,” Shinali said.

He said that the Kenya Kwanza government had given the region a fair share of appointments, and urged voters to remain solidly behind Ruto and Mudavadi.

Khamala said the coalition would intensify campaigns in the constituency to ensure victory for its candidate.

"We are here to tell our people that development comes through cooperation with the government. Let us walk together with President Ruto for the progress of Malava and Western Kenya,” Khamala said.

The Malava parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of the area MP earlier Malulu Injendi early this year.

Mudavadi said the government was committed to completing ongoing projects in Kakamega and Malava, including road upgrades, market centres, and youth empowerment initiatives.

He said continued political cooperation would ensure Western Kenya benefits from the national development agenda.