The upcoming Malava Constituency by-election has taken a dramatic twist after the nomination of former Kenya National Union of Nurses Secretary General Seth Panyako as the DAP-Kenya party flag bearer was challenged in court.
The development has thrown the party, led by former Defense Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, into an internal storm that could significantly affect its chances in the highly competitive race.
Eugene Wamalwa, while addressing party members at Chui House in Nairobi, issued a direct nomination certificate to Panyako, describing him as the most suitable candidate to fly the DAP flag in Malava. However, the move has been fiercely opposed by Hon. Caleb Burudi, who argues that he is the rightful nominee.
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Through his lawyer, Burudi has filed a petition contesting the process, accusing Eugene Wamalwa of abusing his authority. He claims that Wamalwa relied on a “faulty opinion poll” to justify Panyako’s selection instead of following the DAP-K party constitution, which assigns nomination duties to the party’s election board.
The party leader overstepped his mandate and undermined internal democracy. The constitution of our party is clear that the election board should handle nominations, not the party leader,” Burudi stated in his petition.
Burudi has now demanded the immediate withdrawal of Panyako’s nomination certificate and insists that the ticket should be handed over to him. He has further warned that failure to resolve the dispute could fracture the party and deny it a fair chance in Malava.
Implications for Eugene Wamalwa and DAP Party
This internal wrangle is a major blow to Eugene Wamalwa as he seeks to strengthen DAP’s influence in Western Kenya. Analysts argue that if the matter is not resolved amicably, the party risks losing credibility among its supporters.
Political observers note that the timing of the dispute plays directly into the hands of rivals. In particular, the Democratic Change Party (DCP) candidate Edgar Busiega has already established strong grassroots networks and launched an aggressive campaign agenda that resonates with Malava residents.
Recent opinion polls suggest that Busiega is emerging as the frontrunner, with his campaign focusing on youth empowerment, agricultural revitalization, and infrastructural development. Should DAP remain entangled in legal battles, Busiega could consolidate his lead, leaving the party’s candidates at a disadvantage.
Growing Tension Ahead of Malava By-Election
The Malava by-election is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched political contests in Western Kenya. With the DAP party now divided over its flag bearer, the focus has shifted to how the courts will handle Burudi’s petition.
Kenyans are keenly watching the unfolding drama, as the outcome will not only determine the fate of Seth Panyako but also test Eugene Wamalwa’s leadership in managing party disputes. For now, the ball lies in the court’s hands, and the verdict could reshape the political landscape in Malava.
If Burudi’s petition succeeds, Panyako’s candidacy could be nullified, leaving the DAP scrambling to reorganize. On the other hand, if the court upholds Wamalwa’s decision, the party will have to rally quickly behind Panyako to counter Busiega’s growing momentum.
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