Blow to President Ruto as UDA Candidate Withdraws From Kisa East By-Elections
In a significant political twist, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Kisa East ward by-election scheduled for November 27, 2025.
The move comes after the party’s candidate, James Shiraku, unexpectedly stepped down and announced that he would now be supporting Joel Ongoro Otwoma of the Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG).
Shiraku, who had already kicked off his campaigns ahead of the by-elections, explained that his decision followed deep consultations with senior figures in the UDA leadership.
Speaking during a public address in Kakamega County on Wednesday, November 19, he told residents that he had decided to put aside his political ambitions in favour of uniting behind Ongoro, who has recently gained notable support on the ground.
“My name is James Shiraku. I was one of the candidates contesting for the Kisa East seat, but I have now informed Honourable Ongoro that I will support his bid,” he announced, emphasising that the decision was meant to strengthen the political momentum already building around Ongoro.
Shiraku further revealed that a key influence behind his withdrawal was a discussion with Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka, who has been actively campaigning for Ongoro and rallying locals to back the MDG candidate.
With Shiraku out of the race, Ongoro is now expected to face off against ten other aspirants in the competition for the Member of County Assembly (MCA) seat. With only a week left before election day, the political atmosphere in Kisa East is expected to grow even more charged.
Apart from Ongoro, other candidates in the by-election include Abraham Ayaya of DAP-Kenya and Aduda Okwiri from the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). Also in the contest are John Masetu of ODM, Stephen Amwayi of UDM, and David Muchelule of the Agano Party.
This by-election is being held to fill the position left vacant after the death of former Kisa East MCA Stephen Maloba in 2023. Maloba tragically lost his life after reportedly being stabbed during a political rally in Khwisero.
Witnesses say he was attacked by a group of goons who attempted to prevent him from addressing the gathering. Efforts to rush him to Mbale Hospital were unsuccessful, as he succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
With Shiraku’s withdrawal, UDA is now expected to direct its full energy and resources toward the Malava Parliamentary seat, which is also set for voting on November 27.
The decision signals a strategic shift within the party as it seeks to secure stronger results in the larger parliamentary contest.
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