Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has warned President William Ruto that the Luhya community’s support in the 2027 General Election is not guaranteed, saying it must be earned through engagement and delivery.

Speaking on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Eregi village in Idakho South, Ikolomani Constituency, Khalwale said he played a key role in selling Ruto to the Luhya community and should therefore be consulted on any future political plans involving the region.

“Mimi ndio nilileta President William Ruto in Luhya land. Mkitaka kusema 2027 tutapatia Ruto term ingine ama atutampatia, lazima muulize mwenye alimleta hapa,” Khalwale said.

He claimed he had made personal and political sacrifices for the President, only to be sidelined for demanding talks on the future of the Luhya community.

“I have done a very serious sacrifice. Saaii President Ruto ameniwachisha kazi, not because that I dont work, but ni kwa sababu, I have requested him that let us sit on the table, and discuss the future of the Luhya Community,” he added.

Khalwale said political support could not be unconditional, insisting leaders must explain to voters what they stand to gain.

“Huwezi tu kusema unaunga mtu two term na hajakuambia watu wenye wanampigia kura anawafanyia nini. We will ask our people to vote for President William Ruto after President William Ruto has convinced me,” he said.

Fallout after Malava by-election

His remarks come days after Kenya Kwanza removed him from his position as Senate Majority Whip. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced the decision on December 2, 2025, confirming that Bungoma Senator David Wafula Wakoli had replaced Khalwale following a resolution by the majority party.

The ruling coalition cited party discipline after Khalwale backed Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K) candidate Seth Panyako in the Malava by-election instead of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate, David Ndakwa. Khalwale campaigned alongside DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, a move that angered UDA leaders.

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei publicly criticised Khalwale, saying his actions amounted to defiance of the party that sponsored him to Parliament and warranted punishment.

Since his removal, Khalwale has stepped up his criticism of the President and the UDA leadership. At rallies in Kakamega County earlier this month, he accused the government of disrespecting Western Kenya and sidelining him despite his senior role and past loyalty.

The outspoken senator has hinted at launching his own party as he positions himself for the 2027 Kakamega gubernatorial race. His growing alignment with opposition figures signals a possible realignment of politics in Western Kenya.