Kenya, July 15 -- Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has launched a new party, the United Patriotic Movement (UPM), as his political vehicle for the 2027 gubernatorial race in Kakamega County, dumping President William Ruto's UDA.
Unveiling the youth-driven party on July 14, 2025, at his Malinya home, Khalwale announced his decision to abandon the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) due to perceived political betrayals and lack of support for his ambitions.
The outspoken senator, known for his bold political manoeuvres, introduced UPM's regional coordinators, emphasising its grassroots focus and commitment to empowering young leaders across Kenya.
The United Patriotic Movement (UPM) is positioned as a fresh political force, managed primarily by university students with organised teams in Western, Mt. Kenya, and Coast regions.
Khalwale, addressing supporters, highlighted a young woman as the Western region coordinator, with others named Diana and Tunde leading efforts in Mt Kenya and the Coast, respectively.
"Leaders of this party are university students; the party is called the United Patriotic Movement," he declared, urging supporters to rally behind UPM's vision for a transformed Kakamega.
The senator tasked these coordinators with spearheading member recruitment, signalling a strategic push to build a robust grassroots network ahead of the 2027 elections.
Khalwale's decision to form a new party stems from his disillusionment with UDA, the party that backed his 2022 senatorial bid. He recounted a 2022 betrayal where President William Ruto and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi allegedly sidelined him for the Kakamega gubernatorial ticket, favouring Cleophas Malala instead.
"The path to becoming Kakamega governor through UDA is closed," Khalwale stated, citing Ruto's public support for current Governor Fernandes Barasa as evidence of UDA's shift in allegiance.
Despite remaining a UDA senator due to constitutional constraints, Khalwale emphasised that his future lies with UPM, a party he believes aligns with the aspirations of Kakamega's youth and residents.
The launch of UPM has sparked significant buzz on social media, with fans reflecting mixed sentiments. Some users praise Khalwale's bold move to empower youth through a new political outfit, with one post stating, "Boni Khalwale's UPM is a game-changer for 2027."
Others, however, question the viability of yet another party in Kenya's crowded political landscape, which currently includes 90 fully registered parties, according to the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP).
The senator's critics argue that UPM may struggle to gain traction in a region where ethnic-based parties like the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and Amani National Congress (ANC) hold sway.
Khalwale's political journey, marked by stints with NARC, New Ford Kenya, and UDA, showcases his adaptability and resilience. A medical doctor by training, he first entered politics in 2002, winning the Ikolomani Constituency seat, and later served as Kakamega Senator from 2013 to 2017.
Known as the "Bullfighter" for his combative style, Khalwale gained prominence as chair of the Public Accounts Committee, pushing for accountability, including the famous "Kimunya Must Go" motion against former Finance Minister Amos Kimunya. His new party aims to leverage this reputation to appeal to voters seeking change in Kakamega's governance.
The formation of UPM comes at a time of heightened political activity in Kenya, with the 2027 elections looming and ongoing protests reflecting public discontent.
Khalwale has been vocal about national issues, recently criticising Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen for security lapses and calling for tangible development in Kakamega, such as improved roads and hospital upgrades.
By launching UPM, he aims to position himself as a leader who can deliver on these promises, distancing himself from The senator's emotional recounting of his late wife cooking for Ruto during early campaign meetings underscores the personal stakes in his political shift.
As Kenya prepares for the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2025), Khalwale's new party launch adds a layer of intrigue to the political landscape.
UPM's focus on youth leadership resonates with the Gen Z-driven protests demanding accountability, potentially giving the party a unique edge.
However, challenges remain, including navigating Kenya's ethnic-based political dynamics and competing with established parties.
Khalwale's call for unity and development, coupled with his grassroots strategy, will be tested as UPM seeks to establish itself as a credible alternative in Kakamega and beyond.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.