Malava constituency is bracing for what could be one of the most closely contested by-elections in recent history. Scheduled for November 27, the race has crystallized into a high-stakes duel between UDA candidate David Ndakwa and DAP-K aspirant Seth Panyako.
Ndakwa, the immediate former minority leader in the Kakamega County Assembly, has campaigned on continuity and experience. Leaning on his two-term record as West Kabras MCA, he presents himself as the natural heir to the late MP Malulu Injendi’s legacy. Addressing residents across the constituency’s seven wards, Ndakwa emphasizes that effective governance comes from staying within the government fold.
His campaign has drawn a formidable lineup of Kenya Kwanza leaders, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, and Cooperatives CS Wycliffe Oparanya. Central to Ndakwa’s push is President Ruto’s aide, Farouk Kibet, whose constant presence and strategic mobilisation have energized UDA supporters. From early morning rallies to community development projects like the Chegulo Market floodlight commissioning, Ndakwa’s campaign has combined grassroots engagement with tangible demonstrations of development.
Panyako, on the other hand, has built his campaign around resisting government influence, portraying himself as the “people’s candidate” who will restore Malava’s independence. He has drawn backing from opposition heavyweights such as Eugene Wamalwa, George Natembeya, and Rigathi Gachagua, seeking to tap into anti-establishment sentiment among youth and dissatisfied voters.
The by-election is now seen as a broader test of Kenya Kwanza’s influence in Western Kenya. A win for Ndakwa would solidify the coalition’s regional foothold, while a Panyako victory would signal opposition resilience against the ruling government.
With the campaign period ending today, residents of Kabras North, West Kabras, Chemuche, Butali, Manda-Shivanga, South Kabras, and Shirugu-Mugai are preparing to cast their votes in what promises to be a fiercely fought mini-poll.
