Former ODM aspirant Joab Manyasi joins Malava MP race on DNA ticket
Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party leader Godfrey Kanoti (centre) alongside the Secretary-General Barack Muluka (left) and aspirant Joab Manyasi (right) during a press briefing at the party headquarters Nairobi. Photo/Sande Onyango
Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has unveiled Joab Manyasi as its candidate for the upcoming Malava Constituency by-election, adding momentum to a race that is quickly drawing national attention.
Mr Manyasi, a seasoned civil engineer and former public servant in both Kenya and Uganda, is no stranger to the political landscape in Malava.
He previously contested the parliamentary seat in 2017 under Ford Kenya and again in 2022 on an ODM ticket.
Speaking during his unveiling at the DNA headquarters in Karen, Nairobi, Party Leader Godfrey Kanoti described Mr Manyasi as the face of a new generation of accountable and responsive leadership.
“We are offering not just a candidate, but a movement,” said Mr Kanoti.
“Mr Manyasi embodies the DNA values of service, transparency, and people-centred development. Malava deserves fresh, homegrown leadership that listens and delivers.”
In his acceptance speech, Mr Manyasi pledged to champion the interests of farmers, women, and youths, vowing to lead a consultative and inclusive campaign.
“I come from the soil of Malava. I have walked the same roads and faced the same frustrations,” he said.
“I am ready to serve with integrity and work for the change our people have long waited for.”
Mr Manyasi joins a growing list of contenders for the seat left vacant following the death of MP Moses Malulu Injendi.
Among the front runners is lawyer Edgar Busiega Mwanga, backed by the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), Caleb Sunguti of the Roots Party, and Naomi Shiyonga, a former MCA eyeing the seat on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. Also expected in the race is Ryan Injendi, the son of the late MP, who is widely tipped to contest under the UDA banner.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is already preparing to fill vacancies, with an official by-election date expected to be announced soon.
The DNA party has committed to running an issue-driven campaign that will prioritise civic education, grassroots engagement, and practical policy proposals.
