Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has officially stepped into the spotlight to steer the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) campaign in the Malava Constituency by-election. The seat fell vacant following the death of MP Malulu Injendi. Addressing over 100 elders from the 29 Kabras clans in a consultative meeting, Mudavadi declared his full support for the constituency and reaffirmed UDA’s intention to present a candidate who reflects the region’s values and priorities.
“Until Malava elects a new MP, I stand as your Patron,” Mudavadi said. “We must build on the solid foundation left by our late brother Malulu Injendi and keep the development agenda on track.” Mudavadi told elders that UDA’s strategy would not rely on political showmanship. Instead, he promised broad engagement across the community, including youth, women, professionals, and faith groups, to identify a credible and capable candidate.
“Leadership is not about theatrics or short-term excitement. It’s about consistency, trust, and service,” Musalia said. The Prime CS also cautioned against tribalism, saying it had no place in modern governance.
“Clans are part of our heritage. But let’s not use them to divide or mislead during elections,” he said. “Don’t sell your father’s land to buy a trumpet because you’ll have no place to stand and blow it,” Mudavadi reiterated, drawing laughter and applause.
Mudavadi reminded the elders that the constituency’s next leader will come from within the community, but qualifications matter.
“No matter who wins, they’ll be from Malava. But choose someone who has integrity, a clear record, and can work with the government to drive our development agenda.”
In a pointed message, he urged the elders to reject candidates who promote conflict, disrespect places of worship, or mishandle public resources. “Let’s not hand leadership to someone who will fight the community, divide the church, or steal education funds,” he said.
Mudavadi’s appeal comes as UDA intensifies its grassroots mobilization. He emphasized that the party was not forcing any candidate on residents, but seeking honest dialogue.
“We’re not here to impose anyone,” he said. “We want you to help define what leadership Malava needs and I’ll support that.”
Mudavadi also recalled a pivotal moment in his own political journey, telling the elders that advice from the people of Malava once inspired him to adopt a disciplined, transparent leadership style. “You told me to take a stand, and I did,” Mudavadi said. “That stand is why I’m here today, working in government. I won’t betray your trust.”
During the meeting, clan leaders presented a memorandum listing key pending projects initiated under Injendi’s term. These include the completion of the Malava-Ikoli and Malava-Samitsi roads, ongoing water supply efforts in Namanja and Sikhuyu, expansion of hostels at Shamberere National Polytechnic, and full operationalization of Malava Medical Training College and Kabras West Sub-County headquarters.
They also urged the government to gazette and staff newly created administrative units, such as Chesero and Chivanga Divisions, and sub-locations like Mukhuyu, Shivagala, Chevoso, and Indulusia.
Mudavadi responded with commitments, confirming he had written to Transport CS Davis Chirchir on the stalled roadworks. He also pledged follow-up with Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen to finalize administrative approvals for the new sub-units.
“I’m taking these issues directly to the Cabinet,” Mudavadi assured.
Earlier in the week, Mudavadi met with National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) and regional leaders, including Western Regional Commissioner Irungu Macharia. Thursday’s session was the latest in a string of consultations focused on securing the Malava seat.
Also present at the meeting were UDA Vice Chairperson Kelvin Lunani and MPs Fred Ikana (Shinyalu) and Beatrice Adagala (Vihiga), who reinforced the party’s unity ahead of the poll.
Mudavadi’s return to Malava signals UDA’s resolve to retain the seat, banking on his deep roots in Western Kenya, his national stature, and the promise of continuity in development. With campaign groundwork underway, voters are expected to play a decisive role in choosing a leader who aligns with both local needs and national goals.
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