Senior politicians from ODM and UDA who backed opposition candidates in last week's by-elections now face disciplinary action. Sources indicate they could lose leadership roles or be expelled from their parties. The coalition government seeks to adjust parliamentary committee leadership to reflect the new political alignment.
Following by-elections in 24 representational areas, the coalition government secured most seats despite fierce opposition from the alliance led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka. However, some UDA and ODM members supported opposition candidates and now face repercussions.
Targeted members include Homa Bay Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga, Senate Majority Whip Boni Khalwale, and MPs Mohamed Ali of Nyali, Anthony Kibagendi of Kitutu Chache South, Clive Gesairo of Kitutu Masaba, Majimbo Kalasinga of Kabuchai, and Caleb Amisi of Saboti.
In Homa Bay, Magwanga defied Governor Gladys Wanga by campaigning for independent candidate Philip Aroko instead of ODM's Boyd Were in the Kasipul by-election. He had previously boycotted Were during a by-election vote. ODM leaders, including Wanga, have begun pressuring him to resign. “One cannot serve your government while speaking ill of the administration,” Wanga stated.
In Kakamega, Khalwale backed Seth Panyako of DAP-K and David Ndakwa of UDA in Malava. Ali supported Stanley Kenga of DCP in Magarini, Kilifi, while UDA backed ODM's Harrison Kombe, who won.
UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar has called on such MPs to resign and join the parties they endorsed. Sources say UDA plans to strip Khalwale of his Majority Whip position and Ali of his Parliamentary Service Commission role.