National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Co-operatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya have urged the Luhya community to rally behind President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, saying their unity could shape Kenya’s political future and secure the community a long-sought stake in national leadership.

Addressing residents of Lurambi Constituency, Kakamega County, on Friday, where they were joined by a number of MPs, Wetang’ula described the 2027 polls as a “watershed moment” for Western Kenya.

“Our unity and voting pattern will determine our political destiny in 2032. We must demonstrate influence commensurate with our numbers and strength,” he said.

The Speaker argued that a bloc vote for Ruto would position the community to finally capture the presidency in 2032, a seat that has eluded the populous region despite producing political icons like the late Vice President Kijana Wamalwa and Masinde Muliro.

In a rare show of unity, Wetang’ula appeared alongside Oparanya, his former rival, signaling a new partnership to galvanize Western Kenya.

“In 2002, Oparanya and I were elected on the same coalition before parting ways. The broad-based government has brought us back together. Our agenda is to secure development and prepare the community for future leadership,” Wetang’ula said.

The leaders pointed to President Ruto’s frequent visits to the region, the revival of stalled projects, and the Ksh 500 million allocation for Kakamega Level Six Hospital as proof of goodwill.

Wetang’ula also cautioned youthful leaders against disrespecting senior figures, a veiled swipe at former UDA Secretary-General Cleophas Malala, whom he accused of making “disparaging remarks” against him and Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi.

Oparanya, on his part, dismissed graft allegations against him, claiming they were politically instigated by Governor Fernandes Barasa.

“I helped Barasa win the governorship, but he has turned against me with false accusations. If there is evidence, let them prosecute me. Otherwise, these reports are fabricated to malign me,” Oparanya declared, warning Barasa to stop undermining him.

Several leaders, including Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda, rallied behind Oparanya, praising his track record and urging Governor Barasa to respect his predecessor.