Malava, Kakamega County — October 9, 2025 .Tensions are rising within the united opposition coalition after the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) issued a stern warning that it may quit the alliance if the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) fails to withdraw its candidate from the Malava parliamentary race.
Speaking in Malava after DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako was cleared by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), Kakamega County DAP-K Chairman Patrick Butichi accused coalition partners of undermining the party’s influence in the region.
“If our voice as the people of Kakamega continues to be ignored, we will have no choice but to divorce from the coalition,” Butichi said.
He emphasized that the Malava seat should remain under DAP-K’s control, arguing that it represents the political identity of the Mulembe Nation.
Wamalwa and Khalwale Back Panyako’s Bid
DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa and Senate Majority Whip Boni Khalwale threw their weight behind Seth Panyako, describing him as the most qualified candidate to represent Malava in Parliament.
“This election is not just about Malava—it’s about restoring the dignity of the Mulembe Nation,” Wamalwa said.
The leaders urged coalition partners to respect regional party dynamics, warning that disunity could cost the opposition key seats in the upcoming elections.
The standoff now threatens to deepen divisions within the opposition, just months before crucial parliamentary contests.
