MP Waluke, Governor Lusaka Lock Horns Over Ruto’s Re-Election Coordinator Role: “You’re an Imposter with No Influence”
A heated political dispute has erupted in Bungoma County between Sirisia MP John Waluke and Governor Kenneth Lusaka concerning the coordination of President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election campaign in Western Kenya.
The conflict ignited after Lusaka was endorsed by local leaders as the regional coordinator, a move Waluke vehemently opposes, insisting on broader consultations within the ruling coalition. Waluke has branded Lusaka an "imposter" with no significant influence, pointing to his failure in delivering votes for the Ford Kenya Party during the recent Chwele/Kabuchai by-election. Lusaka, who holds the position of Deputy Party Leader for Ford Kenya, has defended his role by reaffirming his loyalty to President Ruto and emphasizing the importance of unity in the coalition.
As the chair of the Western Parliamentary Caucus, Waluke argues that campaign coordination cannot be a unilateral decision and must involve input from MPs, grassroots leaders, and party officials to avoid division. He criticized the endorsement as premature and potentially harmful to Ruto's support in the region, suggesting that the four Western governors, including possibly Trans Nzoia’s George Natembeya, should formulate independent strategies. Waluke stressed that effective leadership requires consultation and respect, warning against imposing figures on the people. In response, Lusaka downplayed the feud as normal political banter, urging a focus on development and performance to ensure Ruto's second term, while highlighting that true leadership entails responsibility.
This public clash underscores deeper tensions within the ruling coalition regarding key roles in Ruto’s re-election bid, with Waluke calling for inclusive processes to maintain regional solidarity. The disagreement could jeopardize coalition stability in Western Kenya, a crucial stronghold for Ruto, if not addressed through dialogue. As the 2027 elections approach, such internal conflicts highlight the challenges in balancing individual ambitions with collective goals for political success.
