UDA's Ndakwa gains major boost in Malava race as rival drops out, endorses him

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi (centre) when Democratic National Alliance candidate Joab Burudi Manyasi pulled out of the contest in favour of United Democratic Alliance candidate David Ndakwa/OPCS

The race for the Malava Constituency seat took a dramatic turn on Sunday after Democratic National Alliance candidate Joab Burudi Manyasi bowed out of the contest in favour of United Democratic Alliance candidate David Ndakwa.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi made the announcement during a ceremony in Kakamega, just two days before the close of campaigns as stipulated by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Mudavadi praised Manyasi for what he termed a courageous and selfless act aimed at promoting unity and safeguarding the interests of Malava residents.

“This decision is not a sign of weakness from our brother Manyasi, but a sign of strength that demonstrates unity of purpose from a leader who is pragmatic and who has always put the interests of the people of Malava first,” he said.

The move is widely seen as a strategic consolidation of support ahead of the November 27 by-election, with political analysts noting that Manyasi’s withdrawal could significantly reshape the dynamics of the race.

With Monday, November 24, marking the final day of campaigns, the endorsement is expected to give Ndakwa renewed momentum in the closing stretch.

The event brought together several high-profile leaders, including Ndakwa, UDA Vice Chairman Kelvin Lunani, Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, and MPs Benard Shinali (Ikolomani) and Fred Ikana (Shinyalu).

Manyasi assured Mudavadi and his supporters that he would fully rally behind Ndakwa.

He said his decision was guided by the broader interest of the constituency and the need for unity going into the by-election.

“As a team player, when the coach tells you to be on the bench you obey. Right now, I am on the bench but I want to assure my supporters that they were my people yesterday, and they will still be my people today and tomorrow,” he said, noting that his followers would help strengthen Ndakwa’s base in his strongholds.

Mudavadi hailed Manyasi’s endorsement as a major boost, saying it provided the UDA candidate with a “renewed surge” and a strong head-start as the polls draw near.

“Victory is indeed coming. The people of Malava Constituency have resolved not to gamble with their votes and know where to place their bet on Thursday 27th,” he declared.

He added that the combined campaign teams of Ndakwa and Manyasi would work cohesively to deliver a landslide victory “for the people of Malava and the Western region as a whole.” 

In a show of united resolve, Ndakwa and Manyasi pledged to intensify their final grassroots engagements and reassure residents of their unified front.

Ndakwa commended Manyasi for choosing cooperation over rivalry, saying his decision demonstrated true leadership and vision for the constituency.