Speaking at a local function on Monday, Khalwale said that the president was being misled about the region’s political mood.
According to the outspoken senator, Mudavadi’s influence in Western Kenya has greatly declined and cannot guarantee Ruto the support he needs in the next general election.
“President Ruto will soon realise that the 2027 race will not be easy. He will come to understand that he needs strong leaders on the ground like me in Kakamega and Seth Panyako in Malava,” Khalwale stated.
He added that the Kenya Kwanza government should focus on rewarding the region for its loyalty during the 2022 polls rather than using government projects to push for political favours.
“The development we are asking for is not a bribe for votes. It is a thank you for the support we already gave in 2022,” he said.
Khalwale, who serves as the Senate Majority Whip, accused Mudavadi of giving the president false confidence about Western politics.
“If Mudavadi truly believes he has influence, let him start with his home in Vihiga before roaming Kakamega. ODM already buried his politics there,” he remarked.
The senator’s comments come at a time when tensions are growing within the ruling UDA party ahead of the upcoming Malava by-election, set for November 27. The seat fell vacant following the death of MP Malulu Injendi.
Khalwale has drawn criticism from senior UDA figures for backing Seth Panyako of the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP–K) instead of UDA’s official candidate, David Ndakwa.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi and other top party members have accused the senator of defying party orders and undermining unity.
During a church service earlier this month, Mudavadi publicly claimed Khalwale was being used by the opposition to attack the government.
But Khalwale has dismissed those claims, insisting he is only protecting the interests of his people.
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