Boni Khalwale Bars President Ruto from Wife's Funeral Over Political Rift

Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale revealed that he personally instructed President William Ruto not to attend the funeral of his late wife, Gloria Sekeiyan, held on August 21 at Malinya Grounds in Ikolomani, Kakamega County.

Khalwale said he communicated this decision through Ruto's aide, Farouk Kibet, after the president's office reportedly requested GPS coordinates for the landing of his plane. "I told him a person does not seek permission to attend a funeral to condole with the bereaved," Khalwale told mourners.

Political Dispute Behind the Decision

The senator linked his refusal to a recent political incident in Murhanda, where Ruto's allies, including Farouk Kibet, held an empowerment event involving KSh 5 million that locals rejected. Khalwale viewed this as an attempt by the administration to gain influence in his political stronghold.

"They recently brought KSh 5 million to Murhanda to confuse our children, but it was refused. Because of that, I told the president I want my wife's funeral to be peaceful, so he should not come to Malinya," he explained.

Attendance and Political Context

The funeral was mainly attended by opposition figures, many actively opposing the Ruto administration ahead of the upcoming general election, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.

It remains unclear whether President Ruto had concrete plans to attend the funeral, as presidential visits typically involve extensive security and logistical coordination beyond simply requesting landing coordinates.

President Ruto's Condolences

Despite Khalwale's public rejection, President Ruto and First Lady Rachel expressed condolences on August 15, the day Gloria Sekeiyan passed away. They acknowledged the family's loss and prayed for strength and peace.

Khalwale's remarks have attracted significant attention amid the tense political atmosphere in western Kenya, where he has been a vocal critic of the current government.