Western Caucus Endorses Seth Panyako for Malava By-Election, Calls for Political Unity

Kakamega, Kenya — September 25, 2025 (EAT).

The Western Community Stakeholders Forum (WCSF) has thrown its weight behind nurses’ union secretary general Seth Panyako in his bid to capture the Malava parliamentary seat in the upcoming November 27 by-election, framing the contest as a defining moment for the region’s political identity.

The Latest

In a statement issued Thursday, the WCSF said the Malava race represents more than a routine parliamentary by-election. It urged voters in Malava, Kisa East, and Kabuchai constituencies to use the polls as a platform to consolidate Western Kenya’s political voice and “punish parties owned by outsiders” by backing Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) candidates.

“DAP-K is the only Luhya-led parliamentary political party of the moment. Let’s identify with this party and fortify our positions to earn respect as a people who can also lead. Malava presents us an opportunity to exorcise the ghosts of supporting political parties owned by outsiders,” the forum said.

Context in Brief

• The by-election: Triggered by the death of former MP Malulu Injendi, the November 27 vote has attracted multiple contenders, with Seth Panyako emerging as a front-runner under DAP-K.

• Regional politics: Western Kenya remains a key battleground, traditionally split among ODM, Ford Kenya, and UDA, with calls for homegrown political leadership intensifying ahead of 2027.

• Political heavyweights: Musalia Mudavadi, Moses Wetang’ula, and Raila Odinga have long dominated the region’s political calculus but now face criticism over national alignments.

Law, Policy, and Process

• IEBC mandate: The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission oversees the by-election under the Elections Act, 2011, ensuring free and fair polls.

• Political Parties Act, 2011: Governs party registration and candidate nominations, critical to DAP-K’s campaign messaging as a “Luhya-led party.”

• Election timeline: IEBC has until November 25 to clear candidates, with official campaigns running until November 26 at 6 p.m.

Voices and Stakeholders

• Western Community Stakeholders Forum: “Malava is our chance to show that Western Kenya can speak with one voice. We urge voters to back leaders rooted in the region’s interests.”

• Seth Panyako, Candidate: He welcomed the endorsement, calling it “a vote of confidence in homegrown leadership that puts health, education, and youth empowerment at the center.”

• Political analysts: Experts note the by-election will serve as a litmus test for regional unity efforts ahead of the 2027 general election.

Evidence & Data

• Voting blocs: Western Kenya accounts for roughly 2.5 million registered voters, with Kakamega County contributing over 850,000.

• Past results: In 2022, UDA and ODM split most seats, while DAP-K secured limited representation despite being led by former Defense CS Eugene Wamalwa.

• Campaign funding: IEBC caps spending for parliamentary candidates at KSh33.4 million under the Election Campaign Financing Act, 2013.

Risks and Implications

• Political realignment: A Panyako win could embolden DAP-K to position itself as Western Kenya’s political kingmaker.

• National alliances: The race may strain ODM and UDA ties in the region, especially amid emerging broad-based government politics.

• Voter apathy risk: Analysts warn that factionalism could depress turnout if parties fail to rally grassroots support.

What We Don’t Know

• Whether ODM or UDA will mount joint campaigns to counter DAP-K momentum.

• How national leaders like Raila Odinga and William Ruto will influence voter sentiment in Malava.

• If the by-election outcome will shape 2027 coalition talks in Western Kenya.

Timeline

• Sept 10, 2025: IEBC issues election timetable.

• Sept 25, 2025: Western caucus endorses Panyako.

• Nov 27, 2025: Malava parliamentary by-election scheduled.

What to Watch

• IEBC candidate clearance: Due by October 15, 2025.

• Campaign rallies: Expected to intensify in early November.

• Voter turnout projections: Early polling to gauge regional enthusiasm.

Related Coverage

• ODM Endorses UDA Candidate in Malava By-Election

• Broad-Based Government Politics: What It Means for 2027

• Western Kenya’s Search for a Political Kingmaker