By Wakhungu Andanje
The political rivalry between Malava MP Malulu Injendi and aspiring candidate Seth Kuka Panyako has taken a dramatic turn after rumours circulated that Panyako had stepped down in favour of the incumbent MP for the 2027 race. The allegations, spread by MP supporters on social media, have sparked an outcry from Panyako, who has vehemently denied the claims.
In a strong response, Panyako dismissed the rumours as “baseless propaganda” designed to confuse and weaken his support base. He challenged MP Malulu Injendi, who is serving his third term, to focus on real issues affecting the constituency rather than resorting to “dirty tricks” for political gain. “The spreading of lies that I have stepped down for Malulu shows how desperate his camp has become. They have no agenda for the people of Malava,” Panyako stated. “I urge Malulu to release the bursary funds to needy students instead of using the Ksh 14 million meant for education to bribe voters.”
Panyako, who narrowly lost to Injendi in the 2022 elections in a contested race that ended in a court ruling in favour of the MP, is gearing up for another political showdown in 2027. Panyako believes the MP has failed to deliver on his promises, highlighting concerns over the mismanagement of CDF funds, poor road networks, and substandard infrastructure in the constituency. “Malava people are tired of your nonperformance,” Panyako said, criticizing the MP for bragging about using CDF funds to build classrooms and buy buses, which he claims are not tangible projects benefiting the constituency. He added that Injendi’s approval of tenders to amateur contractors has resulted in subpar work, leading to wasted resources.
Panyako, who claims to have the political muscle to unseat the incumbent, is positioning himself as the leader who will restore order and bring meaningful change to Malava. He has called on other aspiring leaders to join his movement, insisting that only he has the experience and strength to challenge Injendi effectively. “I’m ready to take Malava to new heights,” he concluded. “Prepare for the grand finale, because come 2027, Malulu will be sent packing.”
As the 2027 election draws closer, the political drama in Malava is set to intensify, with both sides positioning themselves for what promises to be a heated contest.