The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has endorsed Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K) candidate Seth Panyako ahead of the Malava by-election, delivering his message through a spirited phone call that energised supporters at a local rally.
Gachagua, now a prominent figure in the growing united opposition movement, urged Malava residents to turn out in large numbers for Panyako, calling him the most capable candidate to lead the constituency.
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Speaking to the crowd on Friday, he greeted the residents warmly and acknowledged the charged atmosphere at the event. He apologised for missing the rally, saying he had commitments in Mbeere.
“I wanted to come, but I was tied up in Mbeere. I’ve been told all the other leaders are present,” he said, triggering cheers from the audience.
Gachagua asked voters to back Panyako, describing the by-election as crucial for the Opposition’s broader political strategy. He also used his trademark phrase “Hi cousins,” which immediately lifted the crowd’s mood.
He took the chance to restate his intention to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
The event also featured Jubilee deputy leader Fred Matiang’i, who declared full support for Panyako. Matiang’i said he had consulted a team of political analysts before coming to Malava.
“I sent experts to study the ground here, and they told me Seth Panyako is the candidate Malava will support,” he said, drawing loud applause.
The joint show of unity—despite Gachagua joining virtually—was seen as a strong signal of cooperation within the Opposition, which has been intensifying efforts to consolidate its influence in Western Kenya.
The Opposition alliance, bringing together leaders from DAP-K and Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has framed the Malava contest as a key test of its growing strength.
This follows DCP’s earlier move to withdraw its own candidate, Edgar Busiega, in favour of Panyako, a decision presented as a show of unity to boost the coalition’s chances.
Panyako will face tough competition from United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa, who is relying on the ruling party’s structure and support from Kenya Kwanza leaders.
With the by-election set for November 27, 2025, campaigns in Malava have intensified, with both sides holding regular rallies and door-to-door mobilisations.
