UDA’s David Ndakwa votes in Malava, confident of victory

UDA Malava MP aspirant David Ndakwa has cast his vote alongside his family, expressing confidence in his chances of winning the tightly contested by-election while emphasising the importance of peace and restraint throughout the electoral process.

Speaking to the press after casting his vote on Thursday morning, Ndakwa expressed optimism about his chances of winning, saying that the electorate would make its decision based on his track record, campaign promises, and ability to maintain peace in the constituency. 

"I'm joined by my wife here, my family as a whole; we have done our democratic right," he said.

The UDA aspirant went on to recount some of the difficulties he faced leading up to the polls, hinting at attacks on associates without providing specific details.

“The campaigns have been very harrowing, but we have endured to this moment. Where I judge this exercise, I have no complaint with IEBC,” Ndakwa said, commending the commission’s preparations for a smooth voting process.

Ndakwa underscored his commitment to respect and civility, stating that he had refrained from mentioning his opponents’ names during rallies or entering their strongholds aggressively.

He said that he had intentionally maintained a peaceful stance in his campaign despite challenges. 

“I don’t have to plead with people in order to lead, which is why I’ve restrained myself despite repeated provocation. I have stood for peace throughout. In my campaign, I have never mentioned my opponent’s name, nor have I tried to interfere in their territories with unnecessary aggression,” he noted.

 “I have actually been the peaceful candidate."

He said his approach reflects his belief in leadership by character and policy, rather than by intimidation.

“You cannot impose yourself on the people. It’s what people look at you as a character and the manifesto you sell,” he added, urging voters not to allow fear or intimidation to influence their decision at the polls.

The aspirant urged residents to turn out in large numbers and participate fully in the democratic exercise.

“Voters should come out in numbers to elect leaders of their choice and not allow themselves to be intimidated,” he stated.

The Malava by-election has developed into a high-stakes contest between Ndakwa of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) candidate Seth Panyako, 

Voting in Malava opened at 6am across multiple polling stations, with security presence heightened to ensure a peaceful and orderly process.