The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) has officially nominated Seth Panyako, the Secretary-General of the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN), as its candidate in the upcoming Malava Constituency by-election scheduled for November 27, 2025.
The seat fell vacant following the death of Malulu Injendi in February.
Eugene Wamalwa: “A Test for 2027”
Speaking during the announcement, DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa described the Malava race as a crucial test ahead of the 2027 general election.
“The Malava by-election will be a big test for the 2027 elections. As an opposition coalition, we used scientific data to establish our candidates, which is why we settled for Panyako,” said Wamalwa.
He urged coalition partners to rally behind Panyako and encouraged young people to register as voters with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
“We urge the rest of the coalition’s partners to endorse Panyako and Gen Zs to turn out in large numbers and register with IEBC from the 29th of this month,” he added.
Petition Challenges Panyako’s Eligibility
Panyako’s nomination, however, has not been without controversy. A petition filed by fellow Malava aspirant Caleb Burudi seeks to bar him from contesting.
The petition argues that Panyako failed to resign from his position as a LAPFUND board member by August 15, 2025, as required by law after the MP seat was declared vacant on August 8. Burudi insists this makes him ineligible for both the party nomination and the election itself.
Despite the petition, Wamalwa defended Panyako’s eligibility, saying he is fully qualified to represent the people of Malava.
