Senate Majority Whip Boni Khalwale has called on President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to prioritize unity and inclusivity in their political dealings, emphasizing the need to address concerns raised by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Speaking at Makutano Market in Mautuma Ward, Lugari Constituency, on March 30, Khalwale urged the two leaders to engage with Gachagua, warning that sidelining him could create a perception of exclusion and fuel political divisions.
Khalwale pointed out that addressing Gachagua’s grievances would reinforce the President’s commitment to national unity while dispelling fears that his cooperation with Raila could marginalize certain communities.
“When the President and Raila Odinga agreed to work together, the goal was to unite all Kenyans,” he stated. “If national unity is the priority, then President Ruto should sit down with Rigathi, hear his concerns, and find a way forward.”
As a senior member of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Khalwale underscored the importance of open dialogue, noting that a conversation involving Ruto, Raila, and Gachagua would promote inclusivity in governance.
“We do not want a situation where Rigathi continues to claim that Kikuyus are being left out. All communities, whether Kikuyus, Luhyas, Luos, or Kalenjins, should feel equally included in the national agenda,” he said.
The senator also raised concerns over the deployment of security officers at Gachagua’s recent meetings in Kajiado and Naivasha, terming the move unnecessary.
“I saw Gachagua holding meetings, and there was a heavy police presence. That is not the way to handle political matters,” Khalwale remarked, stressing that ensuring inclusivity would strengthen national cohesion.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity, with President Ruto scheduled to visit the Mount Kenya region in the coming days.