The Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP–K) Malava parliamentary by-election candidate Seth Panyako has raised serious concerns over rising political tension and intimidation in Malava, accusing state actors of attempting to influence local politics through fear, harassment, and interference.

Addressing the media during a presser on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Panyako said the situation in the area had escalated to a point where families were living in fear and democratic processes were under threat.

Panyako recounted a disturbing incident involving his wife, saying unknown people were searching for her at a hotel in Malava. He questioned the motive behind the intrusion.

“Ati wanatafuta bibi yangu, ako kwa mkutano kwa hoteli Malava, wanakuta watu wanakunywa pombe kwa hoteli huko Malava, wanasema ati nyinyi ni watu wa Panyako, mko kwa mkutano na Panyako,” Panyako said, adding that his wife was unwell and unable to move around at night. “Na hata bibi yangu ni mgonjwa hawezi tembea usiku, huo ni ujinga wa aina gani, hii ni nchi ya aina gani,” he added

The vocal unionist and politician went on to directly challenge President William Ruto, arguing that the government was losing public support and should accept the reality on the ground.

“William Ruto kama wananchi wamekukataa, please just pack and go honourably because you are going to be a one-term president, hatuwezi kubali ujinga wa namna hii katika nchi yetu,” he said.

Manipulate the people

Panyako expressed deep concern over the safety of his supporters, especially women, who he said had been threatened and displaced.

“Watu hawana amani, wale wafuasi wangu wa kike hawana amani, wamehamishwa kwa maboma yao, wengine hawaishi kwa maboma yao,” He told the media, adding that he had urged them to return home despite the threats. “Lakini nimewaambia leo warudi kwa maboma yao, sisi tutaprovide security kama serikali haiwezi tupea security,” he stated

He accused unnamed government officials of attempting to manipulate local politics instead of allowing residents to choose leaders freely. Panyako questioned why the state would engage in such actions if it truly believed it had delivered development.

“Yani mtu unakuja Malava, badala ya kuacha watu wachague viongozi, kama serikali inaona imefanya kazi nzuri watu wataipenda, kwa nini kuhonga wapiga kura?”he stated

The most explosive claim came when he said that pre-marked ballot papers had been brought into the area in an attempt to rig local voting outcomes.

“Na kuleta ballot papers imemarkiwa, hizo ballot papers ni elfu kumi,” he said, demanding immediate action from law enforcement. “Polisi wahakikishe kwamba hizo ballot papers zimemarkiwa zisingie Malava,” the statement reads

Panyako ended his address with a defiant declaration, stating that residents were prepared to stand firm for justice. “Tuko tayari kukufa kwa ajili ya haki ya watu wa Malava,” he stated