Douglas Twala Masikonde of the little-known Democratic Congress Party (DCP) has won the Narok Town ward by-election, defeating the candidate fielded by President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in a vote seen as a test of the ruling party’s hold on Maasailand.
Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission returning officer Francis Ole Sipano declared Masikonde the winner shortly after midnight on Thursday at the Narok Stadium tallying centre. The DCP candidate garnered 6,007 votes against 4,479 for Robert Kanyinke Ole Kudate of UDA.
Surprise setback for UDA
The seat fell vacant following the death in February of veteran MCA Lukas Kudate, who had held the ward since 2013. UDA had pinned its hopes on sympathy votes by fielding the late MCA’s eldest son, Robert Kanyinke Ole Kudate, in what many viewed as an attempt to keep the position in the family.
Despite emotional appeals from the late MCA’s widow and relatives during campaigns, voters opted for change. Residents interviewed during the campaign repeatedly raised concerns over poor water supply, inadequate street lighting and limited job opportunities for youth in the fast-growing trading hub.
New face in county assembly
Masikonde, a local businessman contesting elected office for the first time, is widely known for funding school bursaries. He campaigned on practical development and what he called inclusive politics.
“This victory belongs to the youth and women of Narok Town who came out in large numbers,” Masikonde told journalists after the announcement, draped in DCP’s green colours. “It is a message to every resident tired of empty promises.”
UDA Narok chairman Moinka Ole Lankas conceded defeat and congratulated the winner, promising cooperation with the incoming MCA for the ward’s development.
Political observers say the result could signal growing discontent with the ruling party in the Maasai-dominated county ahead of the 2027 general election.
Peaceful poll, high turnout
Voter turnout reached 68%, unusually high for a by-election. The exercise remained largely peaceful, although the electoral commission said it would look into isolated claims of vote-buying.
Douglas Twala Masikonde is expected to be sworn in next week as the new Narok County Assembly member for Narok Town ward.
