United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate James Shiraku has withdrawn from the Kisa East ward MCA by-election scheduled for November 27 in Kakamega County.
Shiraku announced his decision during a public rally, revealing that party leadership instructed him to step down and support MDG candidate Joel Ongoro.
“Aseka called me through my party leader, who is the president, and asked me to drop out of the race and support Ongoro of MDG,” said Shiraku. He added, “If your father asks you for a favour in the home, you have no alternative but to oblige.”
The withdrawal reduces the contesting candidates to ten. The remaining candidates include Joel Ongoro (MDG), Abraham Ayaya (DAP-K), Aduda Okwiri (DCP), Khatete Mumia (KANU), David Muchelule (Agano Party), Douglas Shitote (UDP), Raphael Namai (DNA), Pauline Uside (JFP), John Masetu (ODM), and Stephen Amwayi (UDM).
The MCA seat became vacant following the death of former MCA Stephen Maloba, who was fatally attacked last year.
With Shiraku out, UDA appears to be shifting focus toward the Malava parliamentary by-election. KANU candidate Khatete Mumia dismissed UDA’s withdrawal as inconsequential, asserting that the move will benefit his campaign.
“This is choreography by our MP Christopher Aseka to ensure Ongoro, who is the former MCA, comes back to maintain the status quo, but he’s wrong because Shiraku is my clansman, and I will inherit his support base instead of Ongoro,” said Mumia.
Shiraku’s announcement was made in the presence of MP Christopher Aseka, who has not responded to follow-up calls.
Meanwhile, DAP-K deputy leader and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya is expected to lead a major campaign rally in Malava on Friday. Opposition leaders, including Fred Matiang’i, Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Justin Muturi, Cleophas Malala, and Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, are anticipated to attend.
Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula criticized the opposition, claiming their campaigns are focused more on opposing the Kenya Kwanza government than addressing Malava residents’ needs.
