Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has offered a blunt response to Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire’s complaints about being sidelined by high-ranking figures within President William Ruto’s administration.
In a strongly worded post on his social media pages on Monday, June 2, 2025, Khalwale told Governor Mbarire not to be disheartened, saying that internal sabotage is nothing new within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.
“Governor Mbarire, hivyo ndo inaendanga. Don’t cry; just move on,” Khalwale wrote.
His remarks came after Governor Mbarire publicly decried being undermined by senior officials despite her high-ranking position in the ruling party. She currently serves as UDA’s National Chairperson, a role she took on after the 2022 General Elections.
Khalwale: “This Is Nothing New in UDA”
Senator Khalwale recalled similar treatment faced by him and former Machakos Senator Johnson Muthama, both of whom were among the founding members of UDA. He alleged that they were strategically pushed aside after the elections.
“Out of the blue, Gov. Cecil Mbarire was elevated to National Chairperson and Cleophas Malala, formerly of ANC, was appointed Secretary General of @UDAKenya. Ostensibly, this was to get rid of Sen. Muthama and teach Dr. Boni Khalwale a lesson,” he added.
Khalwale further stated that UDA is now “in a spin”, suggesting internal power struggles are destabilizing the party. He said the same treatment Muthama and himself received is now being directed at Mbarire.
Rising Discontent in the Ruling Party?
Governor Mbarire’s grievances add to a growing list of complaints from leaders within the UDA and Kenya Kwanza alliance who feel sidelined in key decision-making processes despite their loyalty during the campaign period.
The senator’s public remarks underscore ongoing power tensions within the ruling coalition, and come at a time when calls for inclusivity and internal democracy within UDA are growing louder.
What Next for UDA?
Political analysts say Khalwale’s comments could stir further debate over leadership integrity, favoritism, and political loyalty within the party. As the UDA continues to consolidate power across different counties, such internal rifts could impact its unity and future prospects.
