Lead image for Khalwale wife’s funeral turns into Sifuna, 2027 political showdown.
The funeral ceremony of Gloria Khalwale, wife of Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, on Friday turned into a political arena as leaders traded sharp words over the 2027 succession, political parties and the future of Western Kenya.
What was expected to be a solemn farewell at Malinya Stadium in Ikolomani, Kakamega County, quickly transformed into a political forum, with Senator Khalwale, the bereaved husband, taking an active role in controlling the proceedings and occasionally interrupting speakers.
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala used his address to urge Dr Khalwale to use his political influence and party to advance Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's presidential ambitions.
Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale speaks to Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala during the burial of his late wife, Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale, in Malinya, Ikolomani Constituency, Kakamega County, on August 21, 2026.
Mr Malala argued that Sifuna should not be left searching for a political vehicle ahead of the 2027 elections and challenged Khalwale to use his existing political party to support the senator.
“Boni, you only have one job remaining: to help Sifuna become the next president. Boni Khalwale, you have a political party. If you love Sifuna, relinquish your position as the political leader and give it to Sifuna. Let him be the party leader and use the party to campaign with,” Mr Malala said.