DCP politician Edgar Busiega is in mourning after losing his father just days following his withdrawal from the Malava parliamentary by-election. Busiega shared the heartbreaking news on Sunday, November 16, confirming that his father passed away at around 9:30 am.
In a statement on social media, he described his father as a pillar in his life and said the loss is “overwhelming.” “I haven’t just lost a father; I’ve lost a friend, a confidant, and the one person whose advice always anchored me. The weight of this loss is overwhelming, and my heart is shattered beyond words,” Busiega wrote.
The cause of his father’s death was not disclosed. At the time of publication, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s party had not issued a formal statement regarding the loss.
Busiega’s personal tragedy comes shortly after he announced that he would not be contesting the Malava by-election. The United Opposition collectively decided to back DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako, prompting Busiega to step down voluntarily.
The DAP-K party confirmed the decision on October 30, highlighting that Busiega would instead focus on managing the DCP’s legal affairs. DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala further encouraged the move by promising Busiega a direct DCP ticket for the 2027 parliamentary elections.
Seth Panyako will now represent the opposition in the Malava race, facing his main competitor, UDA candidate David Ndakwa. The seat became vacant after the passing of Moses Malulu Injendi on February 17.
Busiega’s decision to step aside underscores strategic party unity while offering him a critical role in the DCP’s operations ahead of future elections. As the by-election approaches, the focus shifts to Panyako and other candidates in what promises to be a competitive race.
