Why Seth Panyako will not take legal action despite massive destruction of his property
By Mabonga Makhanu, November 28, 2025Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) boss Seth Panyako, who recently lost in the Malava by-elections, has vowed not to take legal action against those who vandalised his property during the chaos witnessed on polling day.
Speaking to the nation on Friday, November 28, 2025, Panyako recounted the losses he suffered on the eve of the by-election, including damage to his property. Despite this, he emphasised that he has decided not to pursue anyone responsible.
Panyako explained that the decision followed discussions with his family, who advised him against taking legal action.
He stated that he knows the identities of those who orchestrated the destruction, naming President William Ruto’s aide, former cabinet minister Rashid Echesa, and local politician Stanley Livondo, among others from Kakamega County.
He also acknowledged that vehicles belonging to DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa were set ablaze on polling day.
He emphasised that he will not demand compensation for the property damage, asserting that the life of a human being is far more valuable than material possessions.
“As long as my people are alive, property means nothing. It is God who will repay me,” he said.
“Sitalipisha mtu yeyote aliyeharibu mali yangu chochote, mimi na familia yanhu tumekaa na mejadialiana, sisi tumeamua hatutachukua hatua yeyote ya kuwauliza wale wote walioharibu mali yetu kulipa, na wale walio haribu mali hio tunawajua, waliongozwa na nabii nabwera, Stanley Livondo, Rashid Echesa, Farouk Kibet na wengineo, bila shika yeyote hatutaenda kotini mungu ataturidhia”
The united opposition’s next step
This stance appears to contrast with comments made by Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who, during a press conference alongside Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale,indicated that they intend to challenge the Malava by-election events in court, including the destruction of property.
They, however, noted that they will first consult Panyako before pursuing legal action.
“We are consulting as a team. We also want to consult with the candidate Seth Panyako for pursuing this matter in court, because what happened in Malava was a crime, and criminals were deployed,” Natembeya stated.
The Malava by-election concluded with United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa narrowly defeating Panyako, securing 21,564 votes to Panyako’s 20,210.