Former KANU stalwart Cyrus Jirongo has thrown his weight behind Seth Panyako, the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) chairperson, in the upcoming Malava parliamentary by-election. The endorsement was publicly announced by Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa on Saturday, October 4, 2025, in Malava. Wamalwa stated that Jirongo, who is currently out of the country, communicated his support for Panyako via a phone call.

Context of the Malava By-Election

The Malava parliamentary seat became vacant following the death of the previous Member of Parliament, Malulu Injendi, earlier this year. The by-election is scheduled for November 27, 2025.

Seth Panyako is vying for the seat on a DAP-K ticket, having received a direct nomination from the party on September 18, 2025. DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa has emphasized that the Malava by-election is a crucial test of political strength leading up to the 2027 general election.

Shifting Political Alliances

The endorsement by Cyrus Jirongo, a veteran politician associated with various parties including KANU and currently the leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), adds a new dimension to the Malava race. Panyako had previously been associated with the United Democratic Party (UDP) and had even been declared a preferred candidate by Ford-Kenya, an affiliate of the ruling United Democratic Party (UDA), before opting for the UDP ticket. He later joined DAP-K.

Notably, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, a member of the UDA and Senate Majority Whip, has also publicly backed Panyako, despite his own party having a candidate, David Ndakwa. Khalwale cited external forces and a desire to support a candidate representing genuine local interests as reasons for his decision.

In a contrasting move, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has endorsed UDA candidate David Ndakwa for the Malava by-election. Kakamega Governor and ODM County Chairperson Fernandes Barasa announced that ODM would not field its own candidate, opting to support Ndakwa in the spirit of unity and service delivery, and to ensure continuity of projects initiated by the late MP Malulu Injendi.

Legal and Eligibility Concerns

Panyako's eligibility to contest the by-election has faced challenges. A petition was filed by fellow Malava aspirant Caleb Burudi, arguing that Panyako, as a Board Member at the Local Authorities Provident Fund (Lapfund), failed to resign from public office within the legally mandated timeline. According to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Gazette Notice Number 11158 of August 8, 2025, Panyako was expected to have resigned by August 15, 2025. DAP-K, however, maintains that Panyako is qualified, asserting that he is a representative of workers on a body and not a state officer, and that their legal teams have addressed these concerns.

Stakeholder Perspectives

Eugene Wamalwa, leader of DAP-K, has urged other parties within the United Opposition coalition to rally behind Panyako, describing him as the front-runner. He also called on young voters to register with the IEBC. The complex web of endorsements and party decisions highlights the high stakes of the Malava by-election, which is seen as a barometer for the broader political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Evidence/Data

• Malava parliamentary by-election date: November 27, 2025.
• Seth Panyako received a direct nomination from DAP-K on September 18, 2025.
• Cyrus Jirongo is the leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP).
• ODM endorsed UDA candidate David Ndakwa on September 22, 2025.
• The Malava seat became vacant following the death of MP Malulu Injendi.

Risks/Implications

The varied endorsements and cross-party support for different candidates could lead to a fragmented vote, making the outcome unpredictable. The legal challenge regarding Panyako's eligibility could also introduce uncertainty into the electoral process. The by-election's results may offer insights into the shifting political allegiances and voter sentiments in Western Kenya, potentially influencing strategies for the 2027 general elections.

What to Watch

Observers will be keenly watching the impact of Jirongo's endorsement on Panyako's campaign, particularly given Jirongo's historical influence in Western Kenya politics. The resolution of the legal challenge against Panyako's eligibility will also be a critical factor. Furthermore, the by-election will serve as an early indicator of the effectiveness of emerging political alliances and realignments in the region.