Mudavadi, Farouk Kibet Demand Khalwale De-whipped and Expelled From UDA Party - Says He's Not Loyal

Tensions inside the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) are rising after Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and President William Ruto’s close aide, Farouk Kibet, asked for the removal of Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale from the party.

The two leaders accuse Khalwale of disrespecting the party and working against the government’s candidate in the upcoming Malava parliamentary by-election, which was called after the death of MP Malulu Injendi. The by-election will take place on November 27, 2025.

During a Sunday church service in Tumbeni, Kakamega, Mudavadi said Khalwale had betrayed the party by openly supporting Seth Panyako of the Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP–K) instead of UDA’s official flag bearer, David Ndakwa. 

“Mister Khalwale has shown he is not loyal to the party that gave him the Senate Majority Whip position. He cannot keep insulting leaders and expect to continue enjoying party privileges,” Mudavadi said.

He went on to accuse the senator of tarnishing his name in public and of trying to create divisions in the Luhya community.

“He must apologise or be kicked out of both the party and his Senate leadership role,” he added.

Farouk Kibet, who was present at the same event, joined Mudavadi in criticising Khalwale. He accused the senator of focusing on politics instead of development projects in Kakamega.

“He is always talking and attacking others but has done nothing for the people. He must stop the drama,” said Kibet.

Kibet further pledged KSh 1 million to support the construction of a school in Malava through the UDA candidate and challenged Khalwale to do the same if he truly cares for his people.

He promised to stay in the region until Ndakwa wins the seat, saying the people deserve leaders who put development first.

Khalwale, on his part, defended his choice, saying he could not support a candidate chosen unfairly.

He accused Mudavadi of favouring certain aspirants during party nominations and of using his position to divide the Luhya people for personal gain.

“Mudavadi betrayed the people’s choice. That is why I chose to stand with Panyako,” Khalwale said.

The Malava by-election has now turned into a major political battle, testing UDA’s unity in Western Kenya and exposing the growing rivalry between key leaders in President Ruto’s inner circle.