Two of the newly elected Members of County Assembly (MCAs) in Nyamira County have reportedly deserted the opposition and thrown their weight behind the broad‑based government, according to a statement by Denis Itumbi. Photographs shared by Itumbi show the two MCAs in company of Amos Nyaribo Impeached governor of Nyamira — meeting government officials and pledging to work with the ruling coalition.
The shift constitutes a major blow to United Progressive Alliance (UPA) and its principal backer, Dr Fred Matiang’i, who led vigorous campaigns for the by‑election hopefuls across Nyamira. Itumbi’s post on Facebook reads:
“The two newly elected MCAs in Nyamira were, in fact, Broad‑Based candidates. UPA is fully aligned with the Broad‑Based setup, and Governor Amos Nyaribo, as Party Leader, praised them for delivering a Broad‑Based triumph…”
He went on to congratulate the broad‑based coalition, suggesting that the United Opposition had been oblivious to “how well the game was planned.”
The defections come just days after UPA, together with other opposition elements, claimed victory in by‑elections in Nyamira. Earlier reports had indicated that opposition candidates from UPA secured key seats in wards like Nyamaiya and Ekerenyo.
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Nevertheless, the realignment of the two MCAs signals a possible collapse of that margin. For the United Opposition it is more than just a numerical loss it undermines perceived unity and grassroots momentum following a campaign where Matiang’i publicly decried alleged government interference and misuse of state resources to influence the vote.
Politically, the timing of the switch adds to the turbulence in Nyamira. Only a few days ago, Governor Nyaribo was impeached by 23 MCAs over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office.
The two MCAs’ alignment with the “Broad‑Based” camp raises questions about shifting loyalties as the county navigates this period of uncertainty.
For Dr Matiang’i and the United Opposition, this development will likely require reevaluation of strategy.
The defections may cast doubt on whether the by‑election results truly reflect public support for the opposition or rather the strength of behind‑the‑scenes alliances.
As Itumbi declared: “Once again, Congratulations BROAD BASED for winning in Nyamira.” For UPA, what looked like fresh gains may already be slipping away.
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