National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for fairness in the upcoming Malava Constituency by-election nominations while emphasising the need for unity among Kenya Kwanza coalition members once the process concludes.
“My message was simple but firm: let the nominations be fair and spirited, but when the dust settles, let us close ranks and face the opposition as one team,” read Wetang’ula’s X post, dated September 12, 2025.
In a post on X , Wetang’ula outlined his vision for a cohesive strategy to secure victory in the by-election, which will fill the seat left vacant after the passing of MP Moses Malulu Injendi.
“Kenya Kwanza and all our broad-based allied parties will rally behind the successful UDA candidate in the forthcoming Malava Constituency by-elections,” Wetang’ula stated, acknowledging the competitive spirit within the coalition. “I recognize that four UDA aspirants are already preparing to contest in the nominations, and I welcome that spirit of healthy competition.”
The Speaker’s remarks come as the race gathers momentum, with a number of aspirants expressing interest in the parliamentary seat.
Wetang’ula underscored the importance of solidarity after nominations are settled.
“I reminded them all that once the nominations are concluded, we must remain united. Our collective strength lies not in division but in solidarity, because the ultimate goal is victory for the coalition and service to the people,” he said.
The call for unity comes at a time of heightened tension, with allegations of foul play surfacing.
On September 9, 2025, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) Interim Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala accused the state of attempting to bribe aspirants to step down in favour of a UDA candidate. Campaigning for DCP’s Collins Busienga in Shivanga, Malala said,
“There have been attempts to buy out Panyako, but I have spoken with him and encouraged him to remain firm and not fall into traps.”
Malala warned that the Malava by-election will serve as a litmus test for President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, urging voters to resist Kenya Kwanza. “Nyinyi mmeona ameanza kupeana pesa kununua wabunge… sisi tunataka tuwe pamoja, William Ruto aende nyumbani,” he declared.
Among those vying is KNUN chair Seth Panyako, who expressed confidence in his candidacy, saying, “The people of Malava have already made up their minds; they want me to be the next MP.” Ryan Injendi, son of the late MP, is also contesting on a UDA ticket.
The by-election has also been marked by claims of misleading promises, with Malala earlier accusing UDA of offering aspirants like Enock Andanje direct tickets before subjecting them to primaries.
