Natembeya, Khalwale Rally Malava Voters to Back DAP-K’s Panyako in Upcoming By-Election

 

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya on Sunday urged residents of Malava Constituency to support the Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K) candidate, Seth Panyako, in the November 27 by-election, saying the vote would be key to “restoring the dignity of the Mulembe nation.”

Speaking during stopovers in Chevoso (South Kabras), Shanda (East Kabras), Chimoroni, Chemche, and Namagara in Manda-Shivanga, Natembeya—who is also the DAP-K deputy party leader—called for political change, accusing the Kenya Kwanza administration of presiding over runaway corruption, human rights abuses, and deepening social inequality.

Natembeya said Kenyans had been “impoverished by bad political leadership” and emphasized the need for unity, especially among communities he said felt neglected. In a veiled response to President William Ruto’s recent criticism of the opposition, the governor said the united opposition would “end corruption, ensure equitable development and fairness in hiring of security personnel,” adding that long-standing concerns such as police recruitment irregularities would be addressed.

He promised that an opposition-led government would “protect lives, restore dignity, and inspire hope” across the country.

Leaders Trade Barbs With Ruto’s Inner Circle

Kakamega Senator Dr. Boni Khalwale, Bungoma gubernatorial aspirant Zekaria Barasa, and several other leaders who accompanied Natembeya criticized President Ruto’s personal assistant, Farouk Kibet, accusing him of disrespecting the Luhya community and local leaders.

Dr. Khalwale told Malava residents not to support UDA candidate David Ndakwa, alleging he was a “project of outsiders.” The senator echoed Natembeya’s appeal to back Panyako, saying a win for DAP-K would signal the community’s readiness to front a strong presidential challenger to face President Ruto in 2027.

Panyako Warns Against Interference in NGCDF

DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako urged voters to make an “informed and liberating choice,” accusing rivals of perpetuating oppression against the poor. He warned Farouk Kibet against interfering with the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF), claiming funds left in the account by former MP Malulu Injendi were at risk of misuse.

“If you dare take any money and use it, I will send you to jail once elected on the 27th,” Panyako warned.

He accused UDA-allied politicians of having “lost all sense of shame,” and said the people of Western Kenya should rally behind leaders of integrity. Panyako praised Natembeya, Khalwale and other emerging leaders, calling them “Young Turks with a clear vision to restore dignity, equity, and opportunities.”

Barasa: ‘Vote for Dignity’

Bungoma governorship hopeful Zekaria Barasa urged residents to treat the by-election as a defining moment for Western Kenya’s political future.

“It is time for the people of Western Kenya to rise, shine, and set a new standard that earns respect,” he said, adding that the vote would demonstrate unity across the region.

The November 27 by-election is expected to draw intense political interest as parties seek to strengthen their foothold in Kakamega County ahead of the 2027 General Election.