Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala has announced that the party will present a candidate in the Malava Constituency by-election.
Speaking on Thursday, September 25, Malala dismissed speculation that DCP would be pressured to step aside in favor of larger Kenya Kwanza affiliate parties.
He maintained that DCP, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has the right to participate fully in the electoral process.
“We believe that if anyone is supposed to withdraw a candidate, it is not the DCP party. We will be fielding a candidate in Malava Constituency,” Malala affirmed.
The announcement comes against the backdrop of ongoing supremacy battles within the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has already conducted its primaries, with David Ndakwa clinching the ticket. Other affiliates, including ANC and Ford-Kenya, are also keen to capture the seat, making Malava a crowded political field.
The by-election follows the death of the area Member of Parliament, creating a vacancy that has attracted national attention. Malava is considered a strategic constituency in Western Kenya politics, and the outcome is expected to send strong signals ahead of future contests.
Malala’s declaration signals DCP’s resolve to stamp its authority and strengthen its visibility. Political observers note that this decision could complicate negotiations within Kenya Kwanza, as UDA is determined to consolidate its dominance while balancing the interests of partner parties.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has slated the Malava parliamentary by-election for November 27, 2025.
With campaigns set to intensify, all eyes are now on how Kenya Kwanza will manage internal competition while maintaining coalition unity in the run-up to the polls.
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