UDA’s Kisa East Candidate Shiraku Pulls Out of By-Election Race, Endorses Competitor

UDA’s Kisa East Candidate Shiraku Pulls Out of By-Election Race, Endorses Competitor

Kakamega, Kenya – In a dramatic twist ahead of the Kisa East ward by-elections, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has withdrawn from the race after its candidate James Shiraku stepped down and endorsed his rival, Joel Ongoro Otwoma of the Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG).

The by-election, scheduled for November 27, 2025, has drawn intense political activity in Kakamega County, with multiple parties fielding candidates to replace former MCA Stephen Maloba, who died in 2023 following a violent attack at a political rally.

Shiraku, who had already launched his campaign, announced his withdrawal during a public gathering in Kakamega on Wednesday, November 19. He explained that his decision followed consultations with UDA leadership and discussions with Khwisero Member of Parliament Christopher Aseka, a vocal supporter of Ongoro.

“My name is James Shiraku. I am one of the candidates who was vying for the Kisa East seat, but now I have told Honourable Ongoro that I have agreed to support him,” Shiraku declared.

Strategic Realignment

Shiraku’s endorsement of Ongoro is seen as a significant boost for the MDG candidate, who has recently gained momentum in the constituency. Analysts suggest the move reflects UDA’s broader strategy to consolidate its influence in Kakamega by focusing resources on the Malava parliamentary by-election, also slated for November 27.

Political observers note that Shiraku’s withdrawal may reshape the dynamics of the Kisa East contest, where Ongoro now faces ten other candidates.

The Contestants

Besides Ongoro, the race features a crowded field of aspirants:

• Abraham Ayaya of the Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K)
• Aduda Okwiri of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP)
• John Masetu of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)
• Stephen Amwayi of the United Democratic Movement (UDM)
• David Muchelule of the Agano Party

The competition is expected to be fierce, with each party mobilising grassroots support in the final days leading up to the polls.

Remembering Stephen Maloba

The by-election was triggered by the tragic death of former MCA Stephen Maloba in 2023. Maloba was reportedly stabbed by assailants who attempted to block him from addressing a rally in Khwisero. Efforts to rush him to Mbale Hospital proved futile, and he succumbed to his injuries.

His death shocked the county and underscored the risks associated with political contests in the region. The upcoming vote is therefore not only about filling the vacant seat but also about restoring confidence in the democratic process.

UDA’s Focus on Malava

With Shiraku out of the race, UDA has shifted its attention to the Malava parliamentary by-election, where the stakes are higher. Party officials believe concentrating resources on Malava will strengthen UDA’s position in Kakamega County, a region traditionally dominated by opposition parties.

“This is a strategic decision. We are confident that our energy in Malava will yield results,” a UDA insider commented.

Conclusion

Shiraku’s withdrawal and endorsement of Ongoro mark a turning point in the Kisa East by-election, reshaping alliances and intensifying competition among the remaining candidates. As voters prepare to head to the polls, the race is expected to test party loyalties, grassroots mobilisation, and the resilience of Kakamega’s political landscape.

With only days left, all eyes are on Kisa East to see how this unexpected development will influence the outcome of one of the county’s most closely watched contests.

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UDA’s Kisa East Candidate Shiraku Pulls Out of By-Election Race, Endorses Competitor