Wamalwa and Khalwale say development is citizens’ right, not a political favour
A section of opposition leaders has launched a fierce attack on President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of using government-funded development projects to influence voters ahead of the Malava by-election.
Speaking during a rally at Shipala on Saturday, Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa and Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale tore into what they termed as “state-backed voter manipulation,” arguing that residents should not be lured with roads and tractors during campaign season.
“You have a right to development — to have roads from Malava to Summit, from Malava to Ekoli. It is your right!” thundered Wamalwa to a cheering crowd. “You pay taxes like other Kenyans. It is not a favour that Ruto is coming here three years later, yet the Malava–Summit road is still incomplete.”
Wamalwa accused the government of rushing to roll out incomplete projects merely to create an illusion of progress and sway support from locals ahead of the by-election.
“Now, because of Panyako’s candidacy, he is bringing tractors here so that you see them and vote for him. Will you allow yourselves to be played for fools?” he posed, urging the crowd to back DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako.
The former Defence Cabinet Secretary also hit out at the president’s recent remarks about opposition leaders, accusing him of using “disrespectful language” and attempting to dictate regional politics.
“Ruto has been saying some people have no brains, no agenda, and don’t understand themselves — that he will plan for them so they can get jobs. Even your leaders, Mudavadi and Wetang’ula, have already been planned for until 2032,” Wamalwa charged.
Senator Khalwale echoed the criticism, accusing the president of double standards and regional bias in his political alliances.
“When you go to Luo land in Kasipul, Ruto has not fielded his own candidate there — he is supporting an ODM candidate. But here in Kabras, he has fielded a UDA candidate because they do not respect the Luhya community,” Khalwale said.
The outspoken senator, who is facing disciplinary action from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) for supporting an opposition candidate, declared he would not be intimidated.
“Yesterday, Uhuru told off Gachagua’s critics in his backyard, urging the Kikuyu community to stand together. If Uhuru can unite his people, and Ruto can reconcile with Gideon Moi, then why shouldn’t you allow me and Wamalwa to work together instead of wandering?” he said defiantly.
On Friday, former President Uhuru Kenyatta had cautioned Jubilee Party members against personal attacks, calling for civility and unity among leaders — remarks that appeared to resonate with Khalwale’s defense.
As the Malava by-election nears, the political temperature in Kakamega continues to rise, with both the government and opposition trading barbs over the use of state machinery in local campaigns.
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