Omanga explains how upcoming by-elections will shape political parties
By Faith Lagat, November 23, 2025Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga has described the upcoming by-elections as a critical test of party strength and strategic positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Taking to her X on Sunday, November 23, 2025, she noted that while individual candidates will appear on the ballot, the real stakes lie in how parties assert their dominance, consolidate support, and measure their organisational and mobilisation capabilities across key constituencies, highlighting that these mini-polls are shaping up as a rehearsal for the high-stakes national contest in two years.
“The upcoming by-elections are more about political parties & their leaders competing for influence and control & also testing their strengths ahead of 2027 than it is about the popularity and electability of the various candidates. Who will have the last laugh? Let’s wait and see.”
Omanga’s remarks come as Kenya prepares for the November 27, 2025, by-elections in Mbeere North, Kabuchai, Malava, and Kisauni Ward, with political tensions heating up, transforming these mini-polls into a critical test for party strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Her observation reflects a contest where individual profiles fade, giving way to the broader struggle of party dominance and leadership ambitions.
Western Kenya flashpoints
In Malava, the race to replace the late MP Malulu Injendi has become a litmus test for Luhya unity.
DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa framed it as a “defining moment in our journey as a community,” urging backing for Seth Panyako. During joint campaigns, Wamalwa acknowledged Wiper, Jubilee, and DAP-K allies, praising leaders like Boni Khalwale, Cleophas Malala, George Natembeya, Peter Salasya, Caleb Amisi, Jack Wamboka, Edgar Busiega, and Nelson Havi “for championing the cause of Luhya unity and dignity.”
Former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i touted Panyako as a “workers’ rights champion,” dismissing UDA’s David Ndakwa as a “useless person.”
Meanwhile, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna’s hosting of Panyako, joined by Wamboka and Majimbo Kalasinga, sparked speculation of internal shifts, even as ruling coalition figures Mudavadi, Wetang’ula, and Oparanya campaigned against “divisive politics.”
Stakes, security, and strategy
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya underscored the high stakes on November 21, 2025 warning that a Ruto victory could “embolden the president to extend his yoke of taxes and abductions.”
He stressed, “If we lose, the move will embolden the president and puff him up with pride. It is why we are committed to defeating him.” Natembeya also reiterated his commitment to a second gubernatorial term as he focuses on community service.
Across the regions, the IEBC is dispatching ballots to ensure secure custody ahead of polls.