Who Will Take the Seats? Kalonzo Moves First in Heated November By-Elections

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has taken an early step in the race for the November 27 by-elections after unveiling his party’s lineup of candidates.

Speaking at the Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) headquarters in Nairobi, Kalonzo introduced two parliamentary aspirants alongside several others seeking Member of County Assembly (MCA) positions.

In Kilifi County, Wiper will be represented by Samuel Kombe Nzai in the Magarini Constituency contest, while in Homa Bay’s Kasipul Constituency, Dayon Mbare will carry the party’s flag.

Kalonzo emphasized that his party’s decision was rooted in its commitment to “service, integrity, and standing with the people.”

For the ward races, the party has fronted candidates in six areas, including Mumbuni North in Machakos, Purko in Narok, Nyansiongo, Ekerenyo, and Nyamaiya in Nyamira, as well as Nanaam in Turkana. The Nyamaiya ticket is yet to be finalized, with James Kamanda Teya and Daniel Mirambo facing off in party nominations.

Even so, Kalonzo hinted at possible changes to the list as WPF negotiates with other opposition partners to avoid splitting votes. Talks are ongoing with DAP-K, UPA, DP, and other coalition allies over joint endorsements in key battlegrounds.

 “We are in consultation with our partners to ensure we rally behind single candidates in strategic areas. Together, we will deliver victory and liberate our people,” Kalonzo said.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi, and other senior party officials.

Apart from Kasipul and Magarini, by-elections will also take place in Banissa, Malava, Mbeere North, Ugunja, and the Baringo Senate seat left vacant after the passing of Senator William Cheptumo. In total, 17 ward contests are lined up across the country, including Nairobi’s Kariobangi North, Kakamega’s Kisa East, Nandi’s Chemundu/Kapng’etuny, and Garissa’s Fafi.

With the race heating up, it remains to be seen whether Kalonzo’s early strategy will give Wiper the edge—or spark fresh battles within the opposition camp.