Malava Constituency Rallies Behind Nelson Shilunji Taliti as Byelection Looms

• Bashu Clan Endorsement Boosts Shilunji’s Bid as Leaders Warn Against Outsider Influence

By Grace Makovu Mwende

MALAVA, Kakamega County, June 10, 2025 – The race for the Malava Constituency parliamentary seat has intensified as residents and local leaders throw their weight behind Nelson Shilunji Taliti ahead of the forthcoming byelection.

The seat fell vacant following the tragic death of former area MP, Malulu Injendi, whose passing sent shockwaves through the region.

A Unifying Candidate

Shilunji’s campaign received a major boost last week when the influential Bashu clan, one of the largest and most politically significant communities in the constituency, officially endorsed his candidature. The clan’s elders described him as a “son of the soil” with a deep understanding of the constituency’s needs.

“We have scrutinized all the candidates, and Shilunji stands out as a leader who truly represents our interests,” said Mzee Joseph Wekesa, a prominent Bashu elder. “He is not an outsider; he is one of us, and we trust him to champion our development agenda.”

“Vote Wisely”

As unofficial campaigns gain momentum, local leaders have cautioned voters against candidates allegedly being propped up by external forces. 

Speaking at a rally in Chebukutumi Ward, Kakamega governor Fernandes Barasa warned that some aspirants were being bankrolled by outsiders and would prioritize their benefactors’ interests over those of Malava residents.

“This election is about the future of Malava, and we must be vigilant,” the governor declared. “Some candidates are being pushed by people who do not even live here. If you elect them, they will serve their masters, not you.”

The sentiment was echoed by several MCAs and religious leaders, who urged voters to rally behind a homegrown leader like Shilunji, whom they described as “independent-minded and development-focused.”

Shilunji’s Pledges to Voters

Addressing a charged crowd at Malava Town grounds, Shilunji outlined his vision, promising to prioritize healthcare improvements, better roads, and youth empowerment programs. 

He also pledged to complete projects initiated by the late MP Injendi, describing him as a “mentor and friend.”

“This is not just about winning a seat; it is about continuing the legacy of service that Malulu stood for,” Shilunji said. 

“I will work day and night to ensure that Malava gets its fair share of national resources.”

Opposition and Key Challengers

Despite his growing support, Shilunji faces stiff competition from other hopefuls, who have also been crisscrossing the constituency to woo voters. 

Some opponents have dismissed the Bashu clan’s endorsement as “tribal politics,” arguing that leadership should be based on policies, not ethnic affiliations.

Political analysts, however, note that clan endorsements remain a significant factor in the region’s elections. 

“In Western Kenya, community backing can make or break a candidate,” said Dr Cosmas Makokha, a political science lecturer at Kenyatta University. 

“Shilunji’s challenge will be to prove that he can unite all sub-regions within Malava beyond just his Bashu base.”

With the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) expected to announce the official campaign period soon, the political temperature in Malava is set to rise further. 

As voters weigh their options, the debate over local versus outsider influence is likely to dominate the discourse.

For now, Nelson Shilunji Taliti appears to have the wind at his back, but in politics—especially in a competitive byelection—nothing is guaranteed until the final vote is cast.