{UAH} Edmund, Ocen//Ford-K's Khalwale defects to Jubilee

Folks;

In politics, any defection carries some significance; however, the timing and circumstances of that defection determines its value.

In Khwalale's case, he's decamping from Ford-K, where he was Number Two, for the ruling party, Jubilee where he has to start from scratch. 

Normally, such a high-profile defection would be cause for celebration. But Kwalale is not a Big Catch in terms of votes, because he's a former Senator with dwindling influence even in his own home seat.

But for publicity purposes, Deputy President, William Ruto may brag about his newest catch and how much dent he's inflicted on the Opposition in Western Kenya. Only on election day will we get the true impact of this party crossing.

Pojim

Former Kakamega Senator Bobi Khalwale on Friday announced his defection from Ford-Kenya to Jubilee barely a week after his party summoned him to face a disciplinary committee over misconduct.

The Ford-Kenya deputy party leader made the announcement at his Malinya home in Kakamega County where he was hosting Deputy President William Ruto.

He cited threats by the Ford-Kenya leadership to kick him out from the party as his reason of joining the ruling party.

"I will not be ashamed to find space for the Luhya people in the next government" he said.

Politicians who attended the Malinya meeting include MPs Didmus Barasa (Kimilili), Caleb Ositanyi (Soi), Justus Murunga (Matungu), Malulu Injendi (Malava), Aisha Jumwa (Malindi), Khatib Mwashetani (Msambweni) and  Mwambu Mabonga (Bumula).

Former Sports CS Rashid Echesa also attended the meeting.