United opposition unveils joint candidates, warns Ruto against dismissing political rivals

Speaking on Sunday, coalition leaders vowed to mount a fierce political contest in the November 27 by-elections, insisting they will defeat both United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidates across all contested seats.

They urged the President to prepare for a “major political showdown,” asserting that the opposition landscape has evolved and now stands united under a single banner.

In a strategic move aimed at consolidating votes and eliminating internal rivalry, the coalition has agreed to field one joint candidate in each of the upcoming by-elections.

In Malava Constituency, the alliance has endorsed DAP–K’s Seth Panyako, following a consensus that saw DCP candidate Edgar Busiega step down in his favour. Panyako will square off against UDA’s David Ndakwa, whose campaign continues to gather momentum in the area.

“We have been saying one term, but it is not possible if we are not one team,” DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa said, commending Busiega’s decision to withdraw in the interest of unity. “He has made a great sacrifice to stand down for Seth Panyako.”

Meanwhile, in Mbeere, the United Opposition has settled on Democratic Party candidate Newton Karish, who will face UDA’s Muriuki Wamuthende. In Magarini, Wiper Party’s Nzai Samuel has stepped aside for DCP’s Stanley Kenga, who is set to battle ODM’s Harrison Kombe.

Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka praised the coalition’s unified strategy, noting that Wiper had similarly ceded space in Malava. “We affirm the decision to cede ground for DAP–K,” he said.

However, the Broad-Based Government camp remains confident. While rallying support for Ndakwa in Malava, presidential ally Farouk Kibet urged voters to back the UDA candidate, touting his ability to deliver essential services regardless of party lines.

The political rhetoric escalated as opposition leaders challenged the President’s assertion that he lacks a serious rival in the 2027 race. “We want to tell him that his opponents are the people of Kenya,” one opposition leader declared.