The battle for the Malava Constituency seat took an unexpected turn on Sunday after Democratic National Alliance (DNA) candidate Joab Burudi Manyasi dropped out of the by-election and endorsed United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi made the surprise announcement during an event in Kakamega, just two days before the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) closes the campaign period.
Mudavadi applauded Manyasi for what he called a brave and selfless move aimed at uniting Malava voters.
“This decision is not a sign of weakness but a show of strength and unity of purpose. Manyasi has always put Malava first,” he said.
Political observers say Manyasi’s withdrawal could significantly reshape the contest ahead of the November 27 by-election, giving Ndakwa a major advantage as campaigns enter their final day on Monday, November 24.
The announcement was made in the presence of several top leaders, including Ndakwa, UDA Vice Chairman Kelvin Lunani, Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, and MPs Benard Shinali and Fred Ikana.
Manyasi assured Mudavadi and his supporters that he would fully support Ndakwa’s campaign, saying his decision was guided by the greater good of the constituency.
“As a team player, when the coach tells you to sit on the bench, you obey. I’m on the bench now, but my supporters remain my people—yesterday, today, and tomorrow,” he said, adding that his strongholds would now back Ndakwa.
Mudavadi welcomed the endorsement as a major boost for UDA.
“Victory is coming. The people of Malava know where to place their vote on Thursday,” he said, adding that the merged campaign teams would work together for a decisive win.
Both Ndakwa and Manyasi pledged to intensify grassroots outreach in the final hours and present a united front to the electorate.
Ndakwa thanked Manyasi for choosing unity over rivalry, calling the gesture a sign of true leadership.
The Malava Constituency by-election, set for Thursday, November 27, 2025, is shaping up to be a closely watched duel between two main contenders:
-
David Ndakwa (UDA) – the ruling party’s candidate, currently serving as an MCA, sparking debate over holding dual roles;
-
Seth Panyako (DAP-K) – backed by the united opposition and serving as Secretary General of the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN).
The stakes are high, with political analysts viewing the mini-poll as an important test for both regional and national leaders ahead of the 2027 general election.
