Wiper to Field 10 Candidates in November By-Elections, Kalonzo Says

Nairobi, Kenya — September 25, 2025

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka announced that his party will contest 10 elective seats in the November 27 by-elections, spanning three parliamentary constituencies and seven county assembly wards.

The Latest

• Musyoka stated that Wiper will field candidates in Magarini (Kilifi County), Kasipul (Homa Bay), and Ugunja (Siaya) for the National Assembly slots. 

• The party has also named aspirants in MCA wards across counties such as Narok Town, Nanaam, Ekerenyo, Nyamaiya, Kariobangi North, Nyansiongo, and Mumbuni North. 

• Earlier on September 17, Wiper had unveiled a smaller slate of two parliamentary and six MCA candidates, indicating the recent expansion to ten. 

• In his address, Musyoka also dismissed rumors of Wiper joining the ruling coalition and clarified that the party is not participating in the upcoming Jubilee National Delegates Conference (NDC). 

Context & Political Strategy

• By contesting a wider range of seats, Wiper aims to strengthen its footprint beyond traditional strongholds and test its electoral strength in key regions.

• Targeting seats such as Kasipul—historically tied to ODM—signals Wiper’s willingness to challenge in rival territory.

• The move comes at a time when alliances and opposition realignments are under scrutiny heading into the 2027 elections. 

Risks, Challenges & Questions

Potential Risks

• Spreading resources thin: contesting in 10 seats may stretch Wiper’s campaign logistics and finances.

• Vote splitting: In multi-candidate races, Wiper’s entry might split opposition votes and benefit incumbents.

• Perception risk: Some may view the push as overreaching, especially in areas where Wiper is less known.

Key Questions

1. Will Wiper forge alliances or agree to support joint opposition candidates in some constituencies?

2. How will the party allocate resources and personnel across parliamentary and MCA races?

3. What internal selection and vetting processes were used for these nominees?

4. Will Wiper’s performance in these by-elections affect its bargaining leverage in broader coalitions for 2027?

Timeline

• 2025-09-17: Wiper unveils 2 parliamentary, 6 MCA candidates for the by-elections. 

• 2025-09-24/25: Announcement expanded to a total of 10 candidates (3 MP + 7 MCA) by Musyoka. 

• 2025-11-27: By-elections scheduled.

What to Watch

• How Wiper performs across these 10 seats—are any surprises or upsets?

• Whether Wiper collaborates with other opposition parties to avoid three-cornered fights.

• Public and media reaction in regions where Wiper is not traditionally strong.

• Post-election statements: whether Wiper will demand roles, coalition alignment, or further expansion.