A shocking development has unfolded in the Kisa East MCA race, leaving many in Kakamega County surprised and intrigued. The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has made a bold move, withdrawing its candidate and throwing its weight behind a rival party's contender.
James Shiraku, the initial UDA candidate, has stepped down from the race, endorsing Joel Ongoro of the MDG party. This unexpected turn of events has reduced the number of candidates to ten, each vying for the vacant seat left by the late MCA Stephen Maloba.
But here's where it gets controversial: Shiraku claims he was asked to step down by party leadership, citing a request from Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka, who is also the party's president. "If your father asks you for a favor in the home, you have no choice but to oblige," Shiraku stated during a public rally, emphasizing the hierarchical nature of the decision.
With Shiraku's withdrawal, the race takes an intriguing turn. The candidates now include Ongoro, Abraham Ayaya (DAP-K), Aduda Okwiri (DCP), Khatete Mumia (KANU), David Muchelule (Agano Party), Douglas Shitote (UDP), Raphael Namai (DNA), Pauline Uside (JFP), John Masetu (ODM), and Stephen Amwayi (UDM).
And this is the part most people miss: the underlying dynamics and power plays within the political landscape. Mumia of KANU believes this move is a strategic ploy by Aseka to ensure Ongoro's return, maintaining the status quo. However, Mumia claims he will inherit Shiraku's support base, considering their clan ties.
"That's a master stroke for me. I thank him," Mumia said, adding that Aseka should have remained neutral, allowing the people to choose their preferred MCA.
Aseka, present during Shiraku's announcement, remained silent, not answering calls or responding to text messages. Meanwhile, the opposition's campaigns in Malava have shifted focus, becoming less about the people's needs and more about the disapproval rating of the Kenya Kwanza government.
Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula highlighted this shift, stating, "The opposition has no agenda for the people of Malava other than one term."
As the race unfolds, the question remains: Will this strategic move by UDA pay off, or will it backfire? And what does this mean for the future of politics in Kakamega County? Join the discussion and share your thoughts on this intriguing development!
