Former Malava MP aspirant Seth Panyako has opened up about the intense political hostility he faced during the by-elections, claiming powerful forces mobilized violent groups to block his victory. Speaking at a public forum, Panyako said the by-election environment was heavily militarized with hired gangs deployed to intimidate him and his supporters.
“Lakini mimi ni mwanaume buana, almost all goons in Kenya were brought to Malava during the by-elections to stop me from becoming the MP,” Panyako said, insisting that the scale of organized intimidation was unlike anything he had experienced in his political career.
He alleged that his opponents used well-financed networks to unleash chaos, disrupt his campaigns, and threaten voters who supported him. According to Panyako, the intention was clear — to ensure he never made it to Parliament.
Despite the pressure, Panyako said he remained unshaken, portraying himself as a resilient leader who refused to bow to fear. He argued that the use of violence and intimidation during elections weakens democracy and denies communities the leaders they truly want.
His remarks have reignited discussion about electoral fairness, state protection of candidates, and the growing influence of political gangs during campaigns. Supporters believe Panyako’s experience reflects a wider pattern of aggressive political contestation, while critics argue he is exaggerating the events for political mileage.
The claims come as politicians begin repositioning ahead of the next election cycle, with security, credibility, and electoral justice remaining central topics in Kenya’s political landscape.
