Chris Osiemo of United Progressive Alliance has won the Nyamaiya Ward by-election in Nyamira County, inflicting another defeat on ruling United Democratic Alliance in one of its former strongholds.
Osiemo secured 4,790 votes, more than three times the 1,357 votes garnered by his closest rival, Thomas Nyandieka of United Democratic Alliance. Nine candidates contested the seat following the death earlier this year of former member of county assembly Elijah Osiemo, Chris Osiemo’s elder brother.
UPA extends winning streak in Nyamira
The victory capped a strong day for United Progressive Alliance, which also captured the neighbouring Ekerenyo Ward seat.
In Ekerenyo, United Progressive Alliance candidate Njenga Jeremiah Ongaro polled 3,507 votes against 2,292 for Ndubi Amenya Francis of United Democratic Alliance. Wiper Democratic Movement candidate Shem Makori Nyanumba finished a distant third with 291 votes.
Returning Officer Wesley Ruto announced both results at Ikonge Girls High School amid tight security and celebrations by United Progressive Alliance supporters.
Third and fourth wards lost by UDA in six months
The twin wins mark the third and fourth wards United Progressive Alliance has taken from United Democratic Alliance in Nyamira County over the past six months. The losses have raised fresh concerns about the ruling party’s hold on the Gusii region ahead of the 2027 general election.
Political observers attribute the shift to growing voter discontent with United Democratic Alliance dominance, compounded by internal party disputes and perceptions that national leaders have sidelined grassroots issues.
Winner vows continuity
After his declaration, Chris Osiemo promised to continue his late brother’s work.
“This seat belonged to my brother, and the people have entrusted it to the family once again. I will serve with humility and deliver development to every village in Nyamaiya,” he told journalists.
United Progressive Alliance supporters later took to the streets of Nyamira town, waving party flags and praising party leader and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whose regional influence has grown since his impeachment last year.
The latest setbacks will increase pressure on United Democratic Alliance local leaders to address grievances in an area President William Ruto heavily courted during the 2022 campaigns.
Voter turnout figures for the two by-elections were not immediately available, but electoral officials described participation as encouraging despite the mid-week voting.
