Ford Kenya throws weight behind UDA candidate in Malava by-election

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has announced that Ford Kenya will support the UDA candidate in the upcoming Malava Constituency mini polls.

Speaking at a thanksgiving service for Wakili Leonard Shimaka in Lunyinya, Kakamega County, Speaker Wetang’ula stated that the party, being part of the Kenya Kwanza Coalition, will fully back David Ndakwa, who won the UDA party nominations.

"As Ford Kenya, we are committed to supporting the Kenya Kwanza candidate in the Malava by-elections, and we will strongly compete against other contenders," Wetang’ula said.

He emphasised the importance of unity, underscoring the importance of peaceful coexistence.

"All candidates are like our own children, and we must work together to advance our region. A true leader prioritises the greater good over personal interests. It is rare for candidates to graciously accept defeat and celebrate with their supporters afterwards," guided Wetang’ula.

Wetang’ula expressed dedication to empowering the youth and announced plans to unite all candidates who lost in the nomination process to deliver a cohesive message.

"We are a country of peace-loving Kenyans. In any competition, there is always a winner. We should be able to agree to disagree and move forward," he added.

In the UDA nominations, four contenders were vying for the ticket, with David Ndakwa, the Kabras West MCA and Kakamega County Minority Leader, emerging as the clear winner.

Ndakwa received 6,477 votes, followed by Ryan Malulu, the late MP's son, who garnered 3,783 votes.

Leonard Shimaka received 1,192 votes, and Simon Kangwana came in last with 1,064 votes.

Malulu, a former employee at the Parliamentary Service Commission, had pledged to continue his father's legacy, promising development and transformative agendas for the electorate.

“Ryan Malulu, I will ask him to take back his employment and try politics another time,” said Speaker Wetang’ula.

"We will come together and campaign as a team for our candidate. We had great candidates, both of whom have a bright future," he noted.