Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has issued a stern warning against what he terms as “external political interference” in the upcoming Malava parliamentary by-election, insisting that the seat belongs to the people of Malava and must be filled by a local.
Speaking during a burial service on Saturday, Khalwale expressed concern over growing political activity in the region following the assumption of office by the newly constituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), chaired by Erastus Ethekon. The reconstitution of the IEBC has paved the way for pending by-elections in areas like Malava and Kasipul, where parliamentary seats fell vacant after the deaths of their respective MPs.
In Malava, the seat was left vacant after the passing of MP Malulu Injendi on February 17 while undergoing treatment in Nairobi. Injendi, a third-term legislator, had been instrumental in local development, and Khalwale now insists that his successor must come not only from Malava but specifically from the Kabaras clan.
Khalwale took direct aim at President William Ruto’s political advisor, Farouk Kibet, accusing him of frequent visits to Malava under the guise of grassroots empowerment initiatives. Farouk has been spearheading fundraising campaigns and making donations across the Western region, actions seen by critics as covert campaigning to position the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the by-election.
“You have all seen the President’s aide doing rounds in Malava almost daily. He’s not circling here because he loves us; it’s because they are salivating over Malulu Injendi’s seat,” Khalwale said.
The senator further accused the national government of reneging on key development pledges in the region, fueling discontent and anxiety within the ruling party’s local ranks.
Khalwale emphasized that Malava residents are capable of selecting their next leader without outside influence. “All those looking for this seat are our children. It doesn’t matter who wins because it will be a son of Kabaras,” he said.
While affirming his neutrality in the upcoming race, Khalwale pledged to guide the elected MP in continuing Injendi’s development legacy.
