Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) has reported the arrest of its candidate, Seth Panyako, at Malava Police Station as constituents cast their votes in the by-election following the death of former MP Malulu Injendi earlier this year.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, DAP-K alleged that Panyako had been targeted through coordinated acts of violence. The party described a tense night in which unidentified assailants, allegedly operating under police supervision, harassed Panyako and his campaign team, injured party agents, and caused property damage. The party vowed that attempts to intimidate their candidate would not be tolerated.
Panyako, who voted early at St Joseph’s Lunyu Primary School, recounted the ordeal emotionally. He noted that he had received warnings of a potential police raid on his hotel the previous night, which did not occur, but the uncertainty contributed to his distress.
He also raised concerns about Stanley Luvondo, whose vehicle had obscured number plates, and claimed Luvondo’s group was allegedly moving around the constituency offering bribes. Panyako said repeated reports to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) did not result in intervention. Additionally, he highlighted an incident where his driver was attacked, illustrating the atmosphere of intimidation surrounding his campaign.
The Malava by-election has been highly politicized, with allegations of voter bribery and efforts to sway results dominating the campaign. Panyako’s supporters have accused the ruling coalition of using food parcels, cash, and other incentives to influence voters, while questioning the impartiality of local authorities.
Nine candidates are vying for the seat in a constituency with over 94,000 registered voters and 198 polling stations.
