A major political shift has unfolded in Kakamega County after United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate James Shiraku abruptly exited the Kisa East ward by-election race and endorsed his rival, Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG) aspirant Joel Ongoro Otwoma.
The by-election, slated for November 27, 2025, has now taken a dramatic turn, with UDA officially pulling out of the contest just eight days to polling day.
Speaking during a public address in Khwisero, Kakamega County, on Wednesday, November 19, Shiraku confirmed he had dropped his bid after holding consultations with UDA party leadership and key political stakeholders in the region.
“My name is James Shiraku. I was one of the candidates vying for the Kisa East seat, but now I have told Honourable Ongoro that I have agreed to support him,” he announced before a cheering crowd. “After discussions with our leaders, especially Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka, I have decided to step aside for the sake of unity.”
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Aseka has in recent weeks been openly campaigning for Ongoro, whom he has termed the most viable candidate to stabilize the ward’s politics following months of heated campaigns.
With Shiraku’s withdrawal, Ongoro consolidates a significant political boost as he prepares to battle ten other contenders for the Member of County Assembly (MCA) seat. His closest competitors include Abraham Ayaya of the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) and Aduda Okwiri of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).
Also in the race are Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidate John Masetu, United Democratic Movement (UDM) aspirant Stephen Amwayi, and Agano Party’s David Muchelule, among others.
The Kisa East by-election was triggered by the tragic death of former MCA Stephen Maloba in 2023. Maloba was reportedly stabbed during a confrontation at a political rally in Khwisero. Attempts to rush him to Mbale Hospital were unsuccessful, as he succumbed to his injuries shortly after the attack. His death sparked widespread concern over escalating political tensions in the area.
Shiraku’s decision now shifts UDA’s strategic focus to the Malava Parliamentary by-election, which will also take place on November 27. The ruling party is believed to be prioritizing the parliamentary seat as it seeks to retain influence in Kakamega County ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political analysts argue that Shiraku’s exit could significantly alter voting patterns in Kisa East, especially among undecided voters who had been weighing options between UDA and MDG. The endorsement also positions Ongoro as a frontrunner with broadening bipartisan appeal.
As campaigns enter the homestretch, security has been heightened across Khwisero amid efforts to ensure peaceful voting, given the violent history surrounding the seat.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has confirmed that all preparations are on schedule, with ballot papers expected to arrive in the ward in the coming days.
With UDA now out of the race, all eyes are on Joel Ongoro Otwoma as he seeks to capitalize on newfound momentum in the final stretch toward election day.
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