President William Ruto has hailed the winners of Thursday’s by-elections, saying their victories demonstrate the importance of national unity and citizen engagement. In a statement, he congratulated several leaders allied to the UDA and ODM parties, acknowledging their strong performance at the polls.
“Congratulations, David Ndakwa (Malava), Leonard Wamuthende (Mbeere North), Ahmed Maalim Hassan (Banisa), Vincent Chemitei (Baringo), Moses Omondi (Ugunja), Harrison Kombe (Magarini), and Boyd Were (Kasipul) for your deserved win!” Ruto said, emphasizing that the election outcomes highlight the strength of the country when its citizens come together.
“Your victory is a powerful reminder to us that we are bigger and better as a country when we are united,” he added.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed the President’s sentiments, noting that the elected leaders now carry the mandate to serve their communities.
"After gruelling and incredibly intense campaigns, the newly elected Senator for Baringo County, the Members of National Assembly for Mbeere North, Malava, Banisa, Magarini, Kasipul and Ugunja, as well as the various electoral wards, have the mandate of the people to lead," he said.
Kindiki further emphasized that the lawmakers must now play a key role in bringing communities together and driving development in their constituencies. "To those who did not win, you are still leaders in your own right, and your ideas and input are still required in shaping the future of our country," he added.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen commended residents in the areas where the by-elections were held for maintaining peace and cooperating with security agencies.
"Your cooperation with security agencies and respect for the rule of law reflect our collective commitment to democracy and national stability," he said, while noting that isolated cases of violence by political goons were already under investigation. Security agencies have moved swiftly to ensure that perpetrators and their sponsors are held accountable.
In Malava, David Ndakwa emerged victorious with 21,564 votes, narrowly beating DAP-K’s Seth Panyako, who received 20,210 votes.
Other candidates included Wilberforce Tuvei (626 votes), Shivakale Jason (390), James Angatia (243), Ben Nalwa (215), Edgar Busiega (209), George Ngaira (148), and Joab Manyasi (70). The by-election followed the death of the previous MP, Malulu Injendi, earlier this year.
Ndakwa promised to complete all ongoing development projects initiated by his late predecessor. “I will ensure that all the developments started are completed first before launching new ones,” he assured residents after receiving his certificate.
In Mbeere North, Leonard Wamuthende secured 15,802 votes, narrowly defeating Newton Kariuki, who garnered 15,308 votes. Wamuthende pledged to serve the entire constituency without discrimination.
“I have made a commitment not only to those who elected me but to all residents of Mbeere North. I will be there," he said. He also reaffirmed his campaign promises, including fair bursary distribution, free secondary education for day scholars, and infrastructure improvements.
Ahmed Maalim Hassan’s victory in Banisa was hailed by UDA as "a clear affirmation of the trust and confidence the people of Banissa have placed in your leadership". The party expressed confidence that Hassan will advance development, unity, and accountable governance.
Boyd Were of Kasipul won 16,819 votes against Philip Aroko, who received 8,476 votes.
The Kasipul by-election followed the assassination of Ong’ondo Were earlier this year in Nairobi. His death left the constituency in shock, and many residents linked Thursday’s vote to both mourning and a sense of transition.
Election officials reported that polling proceeded smoothly in most centres, with only minor delays at a few stations. Counting extended into the night before IEBC confirmed the results.
