The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has settled on Kabras West MCA and Kakamega County Minority Leader David Athman Ndakwa as its flagbearer for the upcoming Malava parliamentary by-election.

Ndakwa triumphed in the party’s hotly contested primaries, flooring the son of the late MP, Ryan Malulu Injendi, to secure the ticket.

The primaries, conducted electronically, earned praise for transparency despite delays in some regions.

“Today’s UDA by-election party nominations showed the true spirit of democracy. With electronic voting, no rigging, no irregularities, just free, fair, and transparent polls. Voting was fast; results were instant. This is revolutionary,” said UDA politician Buzeki Kiprop.

Ndakwa garnered 6,477 votes, followed by Malulu with 3,783 votes. Leonard Shimaka secured 1,192 votes, while Simon Kangwana finished fourth with 1,064 votes.

Having served three consecutive terms as MCA, Ndakwa is expected to resign his position before being formally endorsed as UDA’s candidate.

Why the Seat Fell Vacant

The by-election was triggered by the death of Malava MP Moses Malulu Injendi in February 2025 while undergoing treatment.

Injendi, who had represented the constituency for two terms, was widely respected for spearheading education and infrastructure projects. His passing left a leadership vacuum and sparked an intense scramble for the seat.

Who Will Face Ndakwa?

The race is shaping up to be one of Western Kenya’s fiercest political contests this year, with several parties fielding seasoned contenders.

Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) has nominated Seth Panyako, the outspoken Secretary-General of the Kenya National Union of Nurses. His national profile and opposition backing make him a formidable challenger.

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) has fronted Edgar Busiega Mwanga, a lawyer whose growing popularity has already unsettled rivals. DCP has dismissed reports of his withdrawal, reaffirming his candidacy.

Roots Party is making history by fielding its first-ever parliamentary candidate, Caleb Sunguti, a university lecturer with a background in public management.

Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has unveiled Joab Manyasi, a familiar name in Malava politics, who has previously contested for the seat.

From within UDA, Ryan Malulu, the late MP’s son, though defeated in the primaries, may still play a role in shaping voter loyalties as he had vowed to continue his father’s legacy.

A High-Stakes Battle Ahead

With UDA consolidating behind Ndakwa and opposition parties rallying their picks, Malava voters are set for a bruising campaign.

Ndakwa’s grassroots record and experience will be tested against the strong appeal of candidates like Panyako and Busiega, who are backed by influential regional blocs.

As the campaign season kicks off, Malava is poised to become the epicenter of Western Kenya’s political battles, with the by-election offering a litmus test for party strength ahead of 2027.

Kabras West MCA and Kakamega County Minority Leader Hon. David Athman Ndakwa. PHOTO/ Ndakwa Facebook.