By-Election Roundup: UDA Dominates Several Races as Opposition Secures Key Win
Kenya’s latest round of by-elections held on Thursday delivered mixed fortunes for the major political formations, with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) securing the lion’s share of victories, while the opposition also registered significant wins in select constituencies and wards.
In Mbeere North, UDA’s Leonard Wa Muthende clinched the parliamentary seat after garnering 15,802 votes, narrowly defeating his closest challenger, Newton Karish, by a margin of just 500 votes. The closely contested race drew considerable attention due to its high stakes and tight finish.
A decisive win for UDA was also witnessed in Banissa Constituency, where Ahmed Maalim Hassan was elected MP with 10,431 votes, trouncing Nurdin Maalim Mohamed of UPA, who managed 1,240 votes.
In ward-level contests, UDA continued its strong performance. In Angata Nanyekie Ward, Isabella Leshimpiro emerged victorious with 1,239 votes, while in Chemundu/Kapng’etuny Ward, Vincent Kiplimo Ruto carried the day after securing 2,999 votes.
The opposition also celebrated notable wins across the country. In Kasipul Constituency, ODM’s Boyd Were was declared the MP-elect with an impressive 16,819 votes, solidifying ODM’s influence in the region.
Meanwhile, Jackson Mogusu of PDP secured the Nyansiongo Ward seat with 2,759 votes, delivering a strategic win for the opposition front. The Democratic Congress Party (DCP) added to the opposition tally with victories in two wards: Douglas Twala Masikonte won the Narok Town Ward by-election with 6,007 votes, while David Wanyoike Warui clinched the Kariobangi North Ward seat with 2,282 votes.