The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has been dealt a major setback after its candidate for the Kisa East Ward by-election, Isaiah Ayaya, announced his defection back to the Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K).
Ayaya, who had been officially unveiled as the ODM flagbearer by Kakamega County Chairperson and Governor Fernandes Barasa, confirmed his decision through a video and a signed letter circulated on Tuesday.
In the video, Ayaya declared that despite receiving an ODM nomination certificate, he remains a life member of DAP-K and intends to contest the upcoming by-election under its banner.
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“I respect ODM and Governor Barasa for trusting me with their ticket, but I cannot abandon my political roots. I have always been a DAP member and that is where I belong,” Ayaya said.
The move is seen as a political blow to ODM, which had invested significant energy in consolidating support in Kakamega County ahead of the ward contest.
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Governor Barasa personally oversaw Ayaya’s presentation to the public as ODM’s candidate, handing him the party’s certificate in what was meant to be a show of unity and strength.
Political analysts note that the defection could split votes in the hotly contested Kisa East by-election, which has attracted interest from several major parties. ODM had hoped to ride on its strong grassroots networks in Kakamega, but Ayaya’s U-turn raises questions about candidate loyalty and internal cohesion within the party.
DAP-K leaders welcomed Ayaya’s return, saying it affirms the party’s growing influence in Western Kenya politics. The Kisa East seat fell vacant following the nullification of the previous election, setting the stage for a competitive by-election.
With Ayaya’s defection, the race is expected to intensify as parties scramble to consolidate their bases.
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