The family of the late Malava MP Malulu Injendi has accused prime cabinet secretary Musalia Mudavadi of betraying their son, Ryan Injendi, during the UDA primaries, rekindling old political tensions in the constituency.

Speaking at his late fathers’ home in Lugusi, Malava, on Sunday September 21, 2025 after a meeting with elders who had earlier endorsed him for the seat, Ryan conceded defeat for the peace in the party.

He claimed Mudavadi had betrayed him just as he had betrayed his late father by denying him a fair shot at the ticket. 

He further alleged that Mudavadi dispatched allies from Nairobi to bribe voters in favor of David Ndakwa. 

“I accept the results, but not in good faith. Mudavadi and his office chose to do me dirty because I am young. He is against youth leadership, and what he has done will be remembered,” said Ryan.

Former West Kabras MCA and Kakamega county minority Leader David Ndakwa, widely regarded as a close ally of Mudavadi, clinched the UDA ticket for the Malava by-election after garnering 8,756 votes. 

He defeated Ryan, who secured 6,262 votes. Leonard Shimaka followed with 3,582 votes, while Simon Kangwana trailed with 2,341. A total of 20,941 ballots were cast.

The UDA primaries were marred by controversy, with tension gripping several polling stations as aspirants and their supporters traded accusations of voter bribery, intimidation, and the use of hired goons.

With the UDA ticket secured, Ndakwa now heads into the November 27, 2025, by-election, where he will face Seth Panyako of the DAP–K party, lawyer Edgar Busiega of the DCP, businessman Wilberforce Tuvei of the Kenya Moja Movement Party, and Joab Manyasi of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA). 

The poll will determine who succeeds the late Malulu Injendi as Malava’s next Member of Parliament.