Joab Burudi Manyasi of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has officially stepped down in favor of Seth Panyako of the Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K). The decision, announced on Sunday, was described as unanimous and aimed at ensuring residents back a local candidate rather than a “foreign” one.
“Joab Burudi Manyasi of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has officially stepped down in favour of Seth Panyako,” the DAP-K statement read. “The people of Malava Constituency and Mulembe must choose their leaders without being imposed on by foreigners. Malava Decides! It’s Seth Panyako!”
This development follows a similar move by Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), which also stepped down for Panyako, consolidating support behind the DAP-K candidate in the highly contested seat.
The Malava by-election has been marred by controversies, particularly after the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) denied the late MP Malulu Injendi’s son, Ryan Injendi, the party ticket. UDA instead endorsed David Ndakwa, the Kabras West MCA and Minority Leader in Kakamega County Assembly, sparking discontent among local leaders.
Ryan Injendi criticized Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi for allegedly interfering in local politics. Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, expressing dissatisfaction with UDA’s handling of the matter, has since thrown his weight behind Panyako, emphasizing the need for residents to decide independently.
“Just as you denied Ryan Malulu Injendi the opportunity and brought an MCA, I have also declared that we will decide who we will vote for without interference from your office,” Khalwale stated.
Despite UDA demanding a show-cause letter from the senator for supporting a rival candidate, Khalwale continues to campaign alongside Panyako and other DAP-K leaders, including Party leader Eugene Wamalwa and deputy George Natembeya.
As the by-election approaches, the consolidation of DNA, DCP, and key local leaders behind Seth Panyako positions him as a formidable contender for the Malava parliamentary seat.
