he United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has secured both the Malava and Mbeere North parliamentary seats in Thursday’s highly contested by-elections, cementing its political momentum ahead of the 2027 race.
In Malava, Hon. Ndakwa David Athman won in a tight contest against united opposition candidate Seth Panyako. Ndakwa is the MP-elect, delivering a major victory to UDA in Kakamega County.
The party published an official congratulatory message acknowledging the result and portraying the win as a reaffirmation of its political values.
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“The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) proudly congratulates Hon. Ndakwa David Athman on his emphatic victory as the newly elected Member of Parliament for Malava Constituency, Kakamega County.
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.
Hon. Ndakwa David Athman’s victory reaffirms that when leaders stand with the people, the people stand firmly with them. We are confident that his voice in Parliament will amplify the aspirations of Malava residents and strengthen the national reform journey led by our Party.
Hongera Mheshimiwa.”
In Mbeere North, UDA’s Hon. Njeru Leonard Muriuki Wamuthende defeated the Democratic Congress Party–Kenya (DCP-K) candidate in what was widely seen as a symbolic showdown between President William Ruto’s camp and allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
UDA published a second message of congratulations on its official website, praising the electorate and outlining its interpretation of the result.
“Congratulations to Hon. Njeru Leonard Muriuki Wamuthende on your resounding victory as the Member of Parliament for Mbeere North Constituency, Embu County.
This win is a clear and undeniable message from the people, a rejection of fear, threats, and disorder, and an overwhelming embrace of hope, progress, and principled leadership.
The people of Mbeere North have chosen a path of development, dignity, and stability. They have stood firm for the UDA vision that uplifts communities, protects democratic choice, and puts the needs of ordinary citizens first. Your victory is not just political—it is a testament to the resilience and resolve of a community that refuses to be swayed by chaos or deception.
As you take up this mandate, we stand with you in advancing transformative leadership rooted in integrity and service.
Hongera Mheshimiwa, the people have spoken, and they have entrusted you with their future. May your tenure be a powerful chapter of unity, growth, and unwavering dedication to the people of Mbeere North Constituency.”*
The twin victories hand UDA critical leverage in two distinct regions and may complicate early organizing efforts by Gachagua’s DCP-K.
Wetang’ula Suffers Shock Defeat in Kabuchai Ward
Separately, the by-election in Chwele–Kabuchai Ward delivered one of the biggest upsets of the day. Independent candidate Erick Wekesa defeated FORD–Kenya’s Vincent Maunda, despite Maunda receiving full backing from National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
Preliminary results show Wekesa collected approximately 3,700 votes against Maunda’s 1,700 — a sweeping margin in what was once considered FORD–Kenya’s political turf. The result is a major setback for Wetang’ula and raises questions about the party’s influence at the grassroots.
Prior to the vote, Wetang’ula extensively campaigned in the ward, urging residents to rally behind Maunda and promising continuity of development under his leadership. Security was also increased in the area amid appeals for a peaceful process.
However, voters chose a different path. Wekesa’s victory signals a rising appetite for independent leadership and, at least locally, fatigue with established political brands. The outcome suggests a desire for representatives perceived as closer to community concerns rather than political hierarchy.
Broader Political Implications
Analysts say the by-election results may carry ripple effects beyond local boundaries. UDA’s wins consolidate its expanding footprint, while the Kabuchai result underscores a new era of electoral unpredictability — where reliance on party machinery alone is no longer enough.
As political formations recalibrate and defeated camps return to the drawing board, one reality stands out: this electoral season has revealed a shifting voter mood driven by identity, performance, and authenticity rather than traditional loyalty.