By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, 27 November 2025 - Tensions in Malava Constituency escalated on Thursday after Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) candidate Seth Panyako was arrested in the middle of the by-election, prompting sharp protests from party officials who accused security agencies of intimidation and failing to contain violence overnight.
Panyako, who is seeking the Malava parliamentary seat, was taken into custody at Malava Police Station under circumstances the party described as “unclear and suspicious”. His arrest came hours after chaotic scenes at a polling station where he was captured in a widely shared video shouting in distress as officials and onlookers attempted to calm him.
DAP-K claims matters deteriorated long before dawn. In statements shared on social media, the party alleged that a group of attackers, whom they insist operated “under police supervision” , trailed Panyako through the night, harassed him, and injured party agents. They also reported destruction of property linked to party supporters.
“This morning our candidate Seth Panyako is in police custody after being terrorised all night,” the party wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Our agents have been assaulted, property has been destroyed, and instead of offering protection, police are intimidating our candidate. We will not allow this.”
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The situation grew even more volatile when a vehicle belonging to DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa was burnt by a mob in Manyonje, Butali Ward. The incident occurred just hours before polling intensified, heightening fears among residents already uneasy about the rising tension.
Community members said the violence had disrupted the mood of the election, with some voters expressing concern about their safety as they queued at various stations. Others urged authorities to act decisively to restore calm.
DAP-K has now demanded Panyako’s immediate release and called for a neutral team to investigate the violence reported overnight. Party leaders accused local security officers of bias and failing to respond to distress calls from their supporters.
