President William Ruto has been dealt an unexpected political blow in Malava Constituency after ODM supporters openly endorsed DAP–K candidate Seth Panyako, who is aligned with the united opposition wing led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The dramatic turn of events unfolded on Monday as thousands of ODM members came out in large numbers to express their support for Panyako. The move places him in direct competition with UDA’s David Ndakwa, who had initially been considered the joint favourite under the broad-based government arrangement involving both UDA and ODM.
For weeks, officials within the Kenya Kwanza coalition believed Ndakwa’s victory was assured, banking on the cooperative relationship between the two parties. However, ODM’s surprise switch has rattled President Ruto’s inner circle just days before the November 27 Malava by-election.
Political analysts say this endorsement significantly strengthens Gachagua’s united opposition strategy. The former Deputy President has insisted that the upcoming by-elections in Malava and Mbeere North would be an opportunity to challenge—and politically embarrass—Ruto’s influence on the ground.
ODM’s decision is now seen as a major morale boost for Panyako, who enters the final campaign stretch with fresh momentum and a consolidated opposition base behind him.
Below are photos of ODM members endorsing DAP–K’s Seth Panyako.
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