Malava MP aspirant and DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako cast his vote at Lunyu Polling Station in Manda-Shivanga Ward, Malava Constituency in Kakamega County on November 27, 2025.
Across the constituency, voters turned out on Thursday morning to participate in a highly anticipated by-election, which has become a key indicator of political alliances and public sentiment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The contest in Malava has narrowed into a fierce duel between United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa, the former minority leader in the Kakamega County Assembly, and Panyako, a vocal critic of the government.
Both candidates campaigned extensively across all seven wards, seeking to win the seat left vacant following the death of MP Moses Malulu Injendi in February 2025.
Malava Returning Officer Salim Abdalla addressed growing concerns about voter inducements, rejecting claims of bribery as unfounded.
Speaking to the media at Malava Boys on Thrusday Abdalla said: “I have not received any complaint of voter bribery and the like. By Monday 6 pm, campaigns ended, and if they are taking place, then that is illegal.” He added that any campaigning beyond the legal period is punishable under the law.
Malava, one of twelve constituencies in Kakamega County, was formed in 1988 during boundary adjustments under the Kenya African National Union (KANU). Over time, the constituency has shifted allegiances, reflecting political changes in Western Kenya, and has historically been influenced by Luhya sub-tribal dynamics, particularly among the Kabras and Maragoli communities.
The constituency comprises seven wards: West Kabras, Chemuche, East Kabras, Butali/Chegulo, Manda/Shivanga, Shirugu/Mugai, and South Kabras.
According to the IEBC, Malava had 94,417 registered voters in the 2022 general elections, and a similar number is expected to cast ballots in the by-election. Analysts note that this vote could signal voter preferences ahead of the next general election.
The by-election has consolidated around two main candidates. Ndakwa enjoys backing from senior UDA leaders, including Moses Wetang’ula, Musalia Mudavadi, and Rashid Echesa.
Panyako represents a united opposition under the Azimio coalition, supported by Kakamega Senator Bonnie Khalwale and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.
Smaller parties initially in the race have stepped aside to strengthen the leading contenders. Edgar Busiega of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) endorsed Panyako, while Caleb Sunguti of the Roots Party pledged support for Ndakwa.
These withdrawals have sharpened focus on the front-runners, turning the Malava by-election into a closely watched test of political influence and grassroots support.
