Kakamega County ODM Chairman Fernandes Barasa has announced that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will back United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa in the upcoming Malava Parliamentary by-election scheduled for November 27, 2025.

The cross-party support aims to consolidate votes for Ndakwa, ensuring his victory and continuation of development projects started by the late MP Malulu Injendi.

Barasa emphasised the strategic nature of the decision, linking it to broader coalition objectives. “Na mimi nataka kuambia watu wa Malava ya kwamba kama wana ODM, kwa sababu tumetilia mkazo mambo ya Broad Based Government, tulisema hatutaweka candidate hapa Malava, na tuko nyuma ya candidate wetu wa Broad Based David Ndakwa,” he said.

He added that all party resources would be directed to support Ndakwa, underlining the commitment to finish the developmental agenda initiated by Malulu.

Elsewhere, Malulu Injendi’s son blamed Musalia Mudavadi for interference after failing to secure the UDA nomination ticket.

Campaigns for Ndakwa

The endorsement comes amid active local campaigning by Kakamega County Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, who, despite his senior position in the Democratic Action Party (DAP-K), has supported Ndakwa.

During the UDA primaries on September 20, 2025, Savula urged voters to back Ndakwa over other contenders, particularly Leonard Shimaka, favoured by Cooperative Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya. Savula’s campaign included incentives to voters, highlighting the competitive and high-stakes nature of the by-election.

Ndakwa has expressed profound gratitude to the people of Malava following his victory in the parliamentary by-election. He acknowledged the support of the UDA leadership, including President William Ruto, the Prime Cabinet Secretary, and party members, highlighting their guidance and solidarity throughout the campaign. Ndakwa also thanked his competitors, Leonard Shimaka, Bryan Injendi Malulu, and Simon Kangwana, for their spirited campaigns, emphasising that elections are contests of ideas and calling for unity to focus on the development of Malava.

Ndakwa pledged inclusive leadership, vowing to serve all residents of Malava and not just a faction. He committed to tackling poverty, expanding opportunities, and improving living standards, promising that his administration would be anchored in integrity and a relentless pursuit of development. “With God above us, with the government beside us, and with the people behind us, Malava’s tomorrow shall be greater than her yesterday,” Ndakwa said, underscoring his vision for a prosperous and united constituency.

Opposition Candidates and Unity Calls

Ndakwa will face DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako, who received a direct ticket from his party, and Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) candidate Edgar Busiega. DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa has called for opposition unity behind Panyako, citing a scientific poll that places him ahead.

Ndakwa, however, has welcomed the ODM endorsement as a boost to his campaign, pledging to serve the people and urging all candidates to focus on development rather than division. He stated, “Our mandate is not to divide but to build; not to exclude but to include.”