Wetang’ula Backs UDA’s Ndakwa as Malava By-Election Heats Up
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged residents of Malava to support United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa in the upcoming by-election scheduled for November 29, 2025. In a statement posted on his social media account on October 26, Wetang’ula emphasized that electing a UDA-backed leader would ensure continued collaboration with President William Ruto’s administration and accelerate development projects in the region. He highlighted that Ndakwa’s victory would strengthen the link between Malava constituents and the national government, facilitating the delivery of programs under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The endorsement follows a vigorous campaign led by UDA officials, including Farouk Kibet, who have been mobilizing support across Malava. Wetang’ula’s backing was reinforced by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who praised Ndakwa’s potential to champion the community’s interests at the national level. However, the campaign has faced pushback from influential leaders, most notably Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, who has pledged unwavering support for Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) candidate Seth Panyako. Khalwale has rejected UDA threats to de-whip him over his stance, insisting that party pressures will not override his loyalty to his constituents and his identity as a Luhya.
The growing contest in Malava highlights the complex interplay of party politics and regional loyalties ahead of the 2027 elections. Analysts note that while UDA seeks to consolidate its influence, Panyako’s campaign benefits from Khalwale’s public support and the sentiment of residents who value community representation over party alignment. As the by-election approaches, the outcome will not only determine Malava’s parliamentary representation but also signal the strength of national party alliances and grassroots mobilization in shaping Kenya’s political landscape.