By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 31 January 2026 - Western Kenya is once again at the heart of a high-stakes political drama, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is making it clear: the region cannot afford to remain divided.
In fiery remarks delivered in Kakamega, Mudavadi urged leaders and residents to abandon endless debates over allegiances and rally behind the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“It is time to stop asking questions and start acting. Western Kenya must speak with one voice, join UDA, and reclaim our rightful influence in the national political arena,” Mudavadi declared, leaving little doubt about his intentions.
The call comes amid years of fractured Luhya politics, where regional unity has often proven elusive.
For decades, Western Kenya has struggled to present a united front, diluting its political influence and allowing other regions to dominate national decision-making.
Now, Mudavadi, alongside National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula and Cabinet Secretary for MSMEs Wycliffe Oparanya appears determined to change that narrative.
Speaking in Bungoma, Wetang'ula emphasised the urgency of consolidation: “Western Kenya has long had the numbers, but we have lacked the unity. It is time to bring our people together, across parties, to ensure the region’s voice is heard in 2027 and beyond.”
Wetangula’s message underlined the shared commitment among the Luhya leadership to forge a cohesive political front that could alter national dynamics.
Similarly, CS Oparanya, addressing county leaders in Kakamega, noted: “We must put aside personal ambitions and historical differences. Our people deserve strong leadership that speaks as one. Unity is not optional—it is essential if Western Kenya is to influence the country’s future.”
Mudavadi’s fiery rhetoric and his allies’ statements signal more than just goodwill; they mark a coordinated effort to unite the Luhya vote behind a single political vehicle, strengthening Western Kenya’s bargaining power ahead of the general elections. Analysts note that this alignment is especially strategic given Mudavadi’s loyalty to President William Ruto, whom he has pledged to support for re-election while simultaneously positioning himself for future leadership roles.
The push for unity is also closely tied to Mudavadi’s handling of the Amani National Congress (ANC) situation.
While legal disputes over dissolving the party and merging into UDA continue, Mudavadi has dismissed concerns, insisting that practical politics outweigh court rulings.
“The court may debate our parties, but the people know what needs to be done. We are moving forward, united under UDA,” he said, underscoring the determination to consolidate Western Kenya politically.
Observers say that by speaking publicly, Mudavadi, Wetang'ula, and Oparanya are sending a clear signal to hesitant leaders and voters that the time for division is over, and those who delay risk marginalisation.
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Sources close to the trio reveal that behind the scenes, they are actively coordinating county leaders and grassroots networks to build a unified platform that could make Western Kenya decisive in 2027.
Political strategists have lauded the approach as both pragmatic and bold.
“The trio understands that numbers alone are not enough; timing and cohesion are critical. If Western Kenya presents a fragmented front, it will lose its leverage. Unity now is the only way to safeguard the region’s interests," said one analyst Wilson Mukhabana.
Yet, challenges remain. Personal ambitions, lingering rivalries, and potential friction from smaller parties may complicate the path to unity.
Still, the three leaders appear resolute, emphasising dialogue and inclusion while leveraging their influence to rally the region.
As the political clock ticks toward 2027, Western Kenya finds itself at a crossroads. The ability of Mudavadi, Wetangula, and Oparanya to translate rhetoric into action will determine whether the region finally secures a commanding voice on the national stage.
Mudavadi’s call, reinforced by his allies, signals a region poised to reshape its destiny, reclaim influence, and ensure its place at the center of Kenya’s political future.
“Western Kenya has been underestimated for too long,” Mudavadi argued.
“Now is our time to stand together, as one people, under one vision. The 2027 elections will not define us—we will define ourselves.”
For now, the message is unmistakable:stop debating, start uniting, and let the Luhya region speak with one powerful voice.
The political heavyweights are in motion, and Western Kenya is finally playing to win.
Western Kenya on the Political Edge: Mudavadi Calls for Unity Ahead of 2027
Mudavadi rallies Western Kenya to unite under UDA for 2027 vote
