Shock in Kisa East as ODM Candidate Ayaya Rejects Ticket, Joins DAP-K Ahead of By-Election
Drama has erupted in Kakamega County after Abraham Isaiah Ayaya, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) nominee for Kisa East ward, rejected his party’s ticket. In a bold move, Ayaya announced his shift to the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), just weeks before the November 27 by-election.
“I Respectfully Decline”—Ayaya Returns ODM Ticket
On October 2, Ayaya released a statement confirming his decision to abandon ODM’s nomination. He revealed that ODM issued him a certificate on September 1, even before he finalized his decision.
“Subsequently, I hereby respectfully decline the nomination certificate issued to me and dated October 1, 2025,” Ayaya stated. “The name is hereby returned,” he added.
Ayaya emphasized that he had already committed to DAP-K, where he remains a lifelong member.
“Confusion Reigns”—ODM Revokes Oyoolo, Picks Ayaya, Then Loses Him
Ayaya’s announcement came barely 24 hours after ODM publicly named him as their candidate. The party had revoked Thomas Oyoolo’s nomination and handed Ayaya a direct ticket.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, who also chairs ODM in the county, issued the certificate on October 1.
“We believed Ayaya was the right choice,” said an ODM insider. “This sudden shift has shocked us,” he added.
Now, ODM faces a scramble to find a new candidate before the deadline.
“A Seat Haunted by Tragedy”—Maloba’s Death Still Fresh
The Kisa East ward seat has remained vacant since the tragic death of former MCA Stephen Maloba. He was impaled during a political clash in Munjiti Village in 2023.
Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula confirmed the incident during a press briefing.
“An MCA has just passed away in Khwisero Constituency,” Savula said. “He was impaled after a confrontation between two camps,” he added.
Maloba had been elected on a KANU ticket. His death shocked the region and left a political vacuum.
“DAP-K Gains Momentum”—Ayaya’s Move Shakes Local Politics
Ayaya’s defection to DAP-K has stirred excitement among supporters. Many believe his move could shift the balance in the upcoming by-election.
“Ayaya is a strong candidate,” said a DAP-K official. “We welcome him home,” he added.
As campaigns heat up, Kisa East voters brace for a tense and emotional race.
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Shock in Kisa East as ODM Candidate Ayaya Rejects Ticket, Joins DAP-K Ahead of By-Election
