Speaking on a local podcast on Thursday, December 4, Panyako expressed frustration with the by-election outcome, drawing parallels to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whom advocate Miguna Miguna declared “people’s president” in 2018.
Panyako noted that, like Raila, he feels the official results did not reflect the will of the people.
“I cannot concede defeat. I am the winner, and I will be sworn in as the people’s Member of Parliament for Malava. Wait for my homecoming, and you will see,” Panyako declared.
He said he plans to organize a homecoming ceremony in the constituency, where a lawyer will administer the oath.
Panyako also compared his experience to the political struggles Raila endured, acknowledging that he now understands the challenges faced by leaders who lose elections despite popular support.
The DAP-K candidate reflected on Raila’s influence in his political journey, revealing that the late ODM leader introduced him to politics by granting him a ticket to contest the Kakamega senatorial seat in 2017, a race he lost.
Despite losing again in Malava, where David Ndakwa won with 21,564 votes, Panyako insisted that state intimidation or opposition efforts will not deter him.
Panyako also apologized for previous criticisms of Raila, stating that the late leader’s experiences helped shape his understanding of political resilience.
His declaration signals a bold, controversial move that could escalate tensions in Malava ahead of his planned self-swearing-in.
Tags
Politics