David Ndakwa of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) was on Friday declared winner of the hotly contested Malava parliamentary by-election, beating his closest challenger by just over 1,300 votes.
Returning Officer Salim Abdala announced at the Malava tallying centre that Ndakwa secured 21,564 votes against Seth Panyako of Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K), who managed 20,210 votes.
The other seven candidates trailed far behind: Wilberforce Tuvei (Kenya Moja Movement) got 626 votes, Shivakale Jason 390, James Angatia 243, Ben Nalwa 215, Edgar Busiega of Democratic Congress Party (DCP) 209, George Ngaira 148 and Joab Manyasi 70.
Narrow victory in Luhya stronghold
The by-election was triggered by the death earlier this year of former Malava MP Malulu Injendi, leaving the Luhya-majority constituency without representation for months.
An emotional Ndakwa, moments after receiving his winner’s certificate, promised residents that he would prioritise completion of all projects started by the late Injendi.
“My guiding principle will be continuity. I will finish every single project Malulu began before I even think of starting new ones,” he told cheering supporters. “My duty is to protect and build on his legacy.”
Ndakwa also thanked President William Ruto for giving him direct UDA nomination, calling it “a huge vote of confidence in my leadership”.
Peaceful but tense campaign
The newly elected MP admitted the campaign had been tough, with repeated provocations at rallies.
“I was provoked many times, even during public meetings, but I chose peace throughout the campaign. I told my team never to retaliate,” he said after casting his vote on Thursday.
He added that his team had conducted extensive, issue-based campaigns across all wards in Malava constituency.
“We went to every corner with a clear message and I believe the people heard us,” Ndakwa said.
Electoral officials described Thursday’s voting as largely peaceful despite high political temperatures in the run-up to the poll. Voter turnout figures were not immediately released.
With the win, UDA retains the seat it has held since the 2022 general election, handing President Ruto government a small but symbolic boost in Western Kenya amid rising economic discontent in the region.
The new lawmaker is expected to be sworn in next week when Parliament resumes.
