The Chwele-Kabuchai Ward by-election is a pivotal moment in Bungoma politics, transcending a simple local contest. For Moses Wetang’ula, the Speaker of the National Assembly and a powerful regional figure, the outcome is a matter of political survival.
A loss here, in his own home ward, would be a major embarrassment and could severely damage his credibility as a political heavyweight, not just in Bungoma but on the national stage.
This is a direct confrontation between Wetang’ula and his former ally, Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga. Kalasinga, who was elected on Wetang’ula’s Ford Kenya ticket, has since broken ranks and is challenging his former boss’s authority in his own “political bedroom.”
The by-election is a litmus test of whether Wetang’ula’s personal influence and party loyalty still hold sway over a people who, according to reports, feel that their elected MP is more loyal to them than to a party leader in Nairobi.
The reasons for Kalasinga’s rebellion—his opposition to the Finance Bill 2024 and his rejection of the leasing of Nzoia Sugar Company—are popular stances that have resonated with the local electorate.
His decision to front his own candidate against Wetang’ula’s Ford Kenya nominee is a strategic move to capitalize on these issues and prove that his political power is rooted in the will of the people, not in party patronage. This defiance has turned a local by-election into a high-stakes political battle with far-reaching implications.
Reports from the ground suggest that Wetang’ula’s candidate is facing an uphill battle against Majimbo’s preferred candidate.
This perceived popularity shift could be a sign that voters are fed up with traditional political allegiances and are more responsive to leaders who demonstrate a commitment to local issues and transparency.
For Wetang’ula, a loss would be a significant blow to his standing and would be seen as a clear rejection of his leadership in the very place where he is supposed to be the most powerful.
In conclusion, the Chwele-Kabuchai by-election is not just about who wins a ward seat. It’s a a power struggle that will determine whether a political heavyweight can maintain his grip on his home turf when faced with a rebellion from within his own party.
The results of this election will be closely watched by political analysts and will serve as a bellwether for the shifting political dynamics in Western Kenya and beyond.
Link:https://www.facebook.com/LightcastTVKenya/posts/if-dcp-had-fielded-a-candidate-in-the-mbeere-north-by-election-it-would-have-ris/1234355428710132/
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