United Democratic Movement's David Ndakwa has extended an olive branch to his competitors following his victory in the Malava parliamentary by-election, calling for unity and collective service to the constituency.
Speaking on Friday, November 28, the newly elected Member of Parliament thanked his rivals and emphasized the need for collaborative leadership in Malava moving forward.
"To my worthy competitors, I want to thank you," Ndakwa stated, acknowledging the spirited contest that characterized the race.
The UDA candidate emerged victorious in Thursday's by-election after garnering 21,564 votes, narrowly defeating his closest challenger, Seth Panyako of the Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K), who secured 20,210 votes.
Other contestants in the race included Wilberforce Tuvei (Kenya Moja Movement Party), George Ngaira (Party of Democratic Unity), Jason Shivakale (Entrust Pioneer Party), and Benjamin Nalwa (National Ordinary People Empowerment Union).
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In his address, Ndakwa attributed his victory to divine providence while calling for reconciliation among all aspirants.
"We need to have one leader in Malava, and this time round God has decided it is me, because leadership comes from God," he remarked.
The new MP urged his competitors to join forces with him in serving the people of Malava, emphasizing their shared commitment to the constituency's development.
"I urge them to come and work with me because our mutual interest was serving the people of Malava," Ndakwa said, adding, "Today it is me, and tomorrow it might be them."
Ndakwa also commended the media for their coverage of the by-election, describing it as fair and balanced throughout the campaign period.
"I want to thank the media team because I'm part of you, and thank you for the coverage and publicity. At no one time would I say it was unfair; you did a good job," he stated.
The United Democratic Alliance described Ndakwa's win as more than a routine electoral outcome, characterizing it as a strong endorsement of the party's values and agenda.
"This win is more than a vote count, it is a powerful statement from the people of Malava. It signals their confidence in principled leadership, issue-based politics, and the transformative agenda our Party continues to champion across the country," the party said in a statement.
However, the election outcome has not been without controversy. Panyako, who came in second, has disputed the results, alleging manipulation in certain polling stations.
The DAP-K candidate claimed victory in 134 out of 198 polling stations and suggested irregularities in the remaining centers.
Despite the contested results, Panyako thanked his supporters for their unwavering loyalty during the campaign, acknowledging the challenges they faced together.
“We won in 134 out of 198 Polling stations, but still they managed to manipulate and subvert the will of the people. They used 54 Polling stations to steal the elections,” he claimed.
“Thank you, my Malava people, your love and trust in me have been steadfast. But to those who subverted your will, judgment awaits them.”
