Political parties in Kenya are heading into bruising contests after failing to strike coalition deals for the upcoming by-elections, setting the stage for direct confrontations in what is being seen as a litmus test ahead of the 2027 General Election.
With the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) setting November 27 as polling day for 22 vacant national and county seats, major parties have signalled they will field candidates across the board rather than back single coalition hopefuls.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s newly formed Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) on Thursday invited aspirants to apply for tickets in all vacant seats, including areas considered strongholds of its opposition allies.
“The Democracy for the Citizens Party hereby invites applications from its members who wish to contest in the forthcoming by-elections under the party’s ticket … All applications must be submitted by September 8, 2025, at the party headquarters or via the official Party email,” the notice read.
Already, DCP is preparing to challenge United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in Banisa constituency, where the ruling party has fronted Ahmed Maalim Hassan.
Adan Kiongozi has declared interest in the DCP ticket, setting up a duel that could reverberate beyond the local race.
The move thrusts Gachagua’s party into direct confrontation not only with UDA and ODM but also with opposition allies, including Justin Muturi’s Democratic Party in Mbeere North, Eugene Wamalwa’s DAP-K in Malava, Kalonzo Musyoka’s Wiper in Machakos, and former CS Fred Matiang’i, who is expected to launch his own Kisii-based outfit.
ODM has also confirmed it will go on the offensive. Secretary General Edwin Sifuna announced after a central committee meeting last week that the Orange party will field candidates in all but seven of the 22 contests.
“The ODM Party remains steadfast in its commitment to internal democracy, transparency and the consolidation of its position as the Party of choice for the people of Kenya,” he said.
Wiper has named Antony Kyalo Kisoi as its candidate for Mumbuni North ward in Machakos, where he will face UDA’s Misi Mutua. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has also pitched camp in Malava, vowing to reclaim the seat left vacant after the death of former ANC MP Malulu Injendi.
In Baringo, 12 UDA aspirants are jostling to succeed the late Senator William Cheptumo, even as Muturi prepares to defend his Mbeere North backyard against DCP’s incursion.
Speaking during a church service last Sunday, Muturi dismissed calls for Mt Kenya leaders to unite under a single party.
“Our Constitution clearly states that Kenya shall be a multi-party democratic state, and every citizen has the right to belong to a political party of their choice,” he said.