The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has reclaimed the Magarini Constituency parliamentary seat in a competitive by-election held on November 27, 2025. Harrison Kombe Garama emerged victorious with 17,909 votes, more than doubling the tally of his nearest rival, Stanley Karisa Kenga of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), who secured 8,907 votes.
The contest unfolded as a direct duel between Kombe, supported by politicians aligned with the government, and Kenga, who had the backing of the United Opposition. Harrison Kombe had previously lost the seat in 2024 when the Supreme Court upheld a decision to nullify his 2022 election victory.
The annulment followed a petition filed by Stanley Kenga, who finished second in the 2022 polls with 11,925 votes, trailing Kombe by just 21 votes.
The High Court cited “glaring irregularities” in the vote counting and declared the election void, paving the way for the November 2025 by-election.
This win marks a strong comeback for Kombe, who faced a tight contest in a constituency that has become a battleground between the government and opposition forces. Observers noted that voter turnout and engagement were high, reflecting the intense political interest in the area.
The by-election result also signals a boost for ODM’s presence along the coast, reinforcing the party’s influence in a region where political loyalties have historically shifted between government and opposition groups.
Kombe’s return to Parliament is expected to strengthen the party’s legislative position and provide momentum as political actors gear up for future electoral contests in the county.
