Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa has urged all opposition coalition partners to unite behind Seth Panyako as the joint candidate for the upcoming Malava parliamentary by-election.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday at the DAP-K headquarters, Wamalwa emphasised the importance of unity within the opposition.
He reminded coalition partners of past cooperation, particularly in areas like Mbeere, where joint nominations were used successfully.
“We are using the same yardstick that applied in Mbeere. That same principle must apply to Malava. We expect nothing less from our coalition partners than full support for Seth Panyako as the joint candidate,” Wamalwa said.
He stated that Panyako had been duly cleared to contest and dismissed any claims questioning his eligibility.
Wamalwa affirmed that all legal matters regarding Panyako's candidacy had been addressed.
“We want to assure our supporters that Panyako is fully qualified to run. All legal concerns around the by-election have been clarified and resolved,” he said.
Wamalwa also emphasised DAP-K’s commitment to internal democracy and transparency in decision-making.
He confirmed that all senior party officials, including deputy party leaders and members of parliament, are backing Panyako's bid.
He warned that fielding multiple candidates from the coalition would divide votes and weaken the opposition’s chances of winning the seat.
“Let’s stay united, stay focused, and deliver victory in Malava,” Wamalwa added.
He further stressed that the party remains united behind Panyako.
On the ongoing internal tensions between himself and Governor George Natembeya, Wamalwa confirmed that a party dispute resolution committee is handling the matter.
He insisted that now is not the time for internal conflicts but for focusing on securing electoral wins.
This comes after DAP-K officially issued a direct nomination certificate to Panyako to contest in the Malava by-election.
Wamalwa announced that Panyako’s candidacy had been unanimously endorsed after consultations and legal vetting within the party.
“The report we received shows Panyako is leading in all seven wards of Malava by a double-digit margin over five United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidates. Other aspirants, including those from our own party, ranked far below him. This proves he is the people’s choice,” Wamalwa stated.
