Former Health CAS nominee James Mbaluka has publicly expressed disappointment with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and hinted at a possible return to the Wiper party, citing betrayal of promises made to the Kenyan people.

Speaking at the burial of Garshon Mutisya, a businessman from Emali who was fatally shot by police during the June 25th protests in Nguu Masumba, Mbaluka criticized both President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga, accusing them of political deception.

“What was promised and what is being done are two completely different things and that is very painful, When I looked at those vying in 2022, I saw Raila as a political conman. He has ended up conning you.” he said.

Mbaluka lamented the neglect of ordinary citizens by the Kenya Kwanza administration, which he accused of abandoning its much-publicized “Bottom-Up” economic agenda. He cited increased costs of living, higher prices for motorbikes, and reduced school capitation as indicators of the government’s failure to deliver on its promises.

“When we came up with Bottom-Up, we told boda boda riders we would change their lives. Motorbikes cost about KSh100,000 then now it’s KSh200,000. Instead of increasing school capitation, they’ve reduced it. That is a lie, and I want to apologize because this is not what we promised.” Mbaluka lamented.

He added that both Ruto and Raila had misled the public, calling for a serious conversation within the community on their future political direction.

“You also need to apologize to yourselves because the person you voted for conned you. Raila joined the government. As a community, we need to ask ourselves: where will we cast our votes? If we continue voting for liars and conmen, there is no future.”

Mbaluka also took a swipe at Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, accusing him of pushing hollow empowerment initiatives that have not transformed lives in the constituency.

“You cannot serve God and bribe people at the same time — it’s not possible. Had we voted wisely, this man wouldn’t be in a casket.” He added.

His remarks come amid increasing political realignments in the region, with several leaders hinting at possible shifts ahead of the 2027 elections.