Slain MP’s Son Fails To Secure Malava UDA Ticket As Ndakwa Triumphs In Hotly Contested Primaries

David Ndakwa, the Kakamega County Assembly Minority Leader, has emerged victorious in the United Democratic Alliance primaries for the Malava parliamentary by-election.

Ndakwa garnered 6,477 votes, securing 63 percent of the total ballots cast.

His closest challenger was Ryan Injendi Malulu, son of the late MP Malulu Injendi, who managed 3,783 votes. 

Other aspirants Simon Kangwana Chimuche and Leonard Lipala Shimaka finished far behind, with minimal support from the electorate.

The nomination exercise was conducted digitally across 250 polling centers under the watch of the UDA National Elections Board. 

Party Vice Chair Kelvin Lunani praised the process, saying it was credible and free of irregularities. More than 10,000 voters turned out, reflecting the high stakes in the constituency.

Ndakwa, who has represented West Kabras Ward since 2017, was widely regarded as the frontrunner. 

He started his political career in the ANC before crossing over to UDA. Nicknamed “Obama” by locals for his oratory and grassroots projects, he pledged to champion youth employment, better healthcare, and agricultural support. 

He also vowed to continue unfinished projects initiated by the late MP.

Ryan Malulu, a 32-year-old lawyer, had hoped to ride on his father’s legacy. His campaign leaned heavily on family goodwill and youthful energy.

Reports indicated that some top UDA leaders quietly favored him, but the numbers showed that the people preferred Ndakwa’s experience over lineage.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has set November 27, 2025, as the date for the by-election. 

The Malava seat fell vacant in March following the death of Malulu Injendi. The constituency is viewed as a Kenya Kwanza bastion, and the contest is expected to be intense.

UDA will now face strong opponents, including DAP-K’s Seth Panyako, who enjoys backing from Eugene Wamalwa, and DCP’s Edgar Busiega, a fierce critic of the administration.

ODM and Ford Kenya have already indicated support for Ndakwa, while National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged unity to strengthen his chances. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has called on aspirants to avoid defections and back the party.

Political analysts believe Ndakwa’s win signals UDA’s growing influence in Western Kenya. 

For many Malava residents, his nomination represents a choice for proven leadership over family heritage. With the campaign season now underway, anticipation is building ahead of the November showdown.