Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) Secretary General Seth Panyako has announced his return to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), confirming that he will seek the party's ticket for the Malava parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.
Panyako, who previously belonged to UDA before defecting to the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) to contest the 2025 Malava by-election, made the declaration through a series of Facebook posts over the weekend, effectively ending speculation over his next political move.
"I will be vying for the Member of Parliament, Malava Constituency, on the UDA Party ticket in the 2027 General Election," Panyako posted.
He also dismissed reports linking him to a possible bid for the Kakamega Senate seat.
"Wale wanasema mambo ya senator hyo ni propaganda."
The by-election was one of the most closely contested races in Western Kenya. UDA candidate David Ndakwa won with 21,564 votes, while Panyako secured 20,210 votes, losing by 1,354 votes. The election was held following the death of former Malava MP Malulu Injendi.
Panyako later challenged the election results in court, but the High Court upheld Ndakwa's victory.
His decision to rejoin UDA has sparked mixed reactions, particularly among supporters who backed his DAP-K candidature.
Comments on his Facebook posts show many expressing disappointments, accusing him of abandoning the political ideals he championed during the by-election campaign.
Others questioned his return to the very party he fiercely campaigned against, while some supporters welcomed the move, arguing that it gives him a stronger platform to recapture the Malava seat in 2027.
On Saturday, Panyako also shared a Sabbath message with his followers, urging them to remain hopeful and faithful.
"Every new day comes with new strength, new hope, and new opportunities. Let us embrace each moment with gratitude and faith, knowing that when we trust in God and appreciate the gift of today, we can find joy regardless of the challenges or changes that come our way."
Panyako's return to UDA introduces a new political dynamic in Malava, where he is now expected to seek the party's nomination against incumbent MP David Ndakwa in what could become one of the most closely watched UDA nomination contests ahead of the 2027 General Election.
