At least six candidates have shown interest to dethrone the current Sabatia MP Clement Sloya ahead of the 2027 general elections.
By Eugene Kidagisa, Sabatia
As the 2027 general elections approach, the race for the Sabatia parliamentary seat is shaping up to be one of the most hotly contested in the region.
With a mix of seasoned politicians and fresh faces entering the fray, voters are preparing for an intense campaign season marked by sharp debates both at the grassroots and online.
At the center of the contest is incumbent MP Clement Sloya, whose tenure has been characterized by both achievements and controversies.
Sloya’s political career began when he inherited the ambitions of his late brother, Maclean Sloya, but his re-election bid in 2027 may not be as straightforward.
In 2022, vying on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party he won with 23,835 votes, defeating Dr. Ayodi Lusigi of ANC, who garnered 10,539 votes. However, the political landscape has shifted dramatically since then.
The MP has propelled his achievements on social media highlighting the construction of classroom and toilets around schools in the constituency.
Seeking re-election, the youthful Sloya faces criticism over the decision in 2024 to allocate a mere Sh2,000 per student for secondary school bursaries, a move that has sparked outrage among parents and students grappling with rising education costs.
Another criticism is his decision to support the controversial 2024 Finance Bill, which triggered nationwide protests, which has further alienated younger voters, who see him as disconnected from their struggles.
Among his prominent challengers is Sisco Mbindi, a former Vihiga senatorial candidate who has captured the imagination of the youth with his progressive policies and grassroots connections.
Although he ran for the Vihiga senatorial seat in 2022, his appeal within Sabatia is undeniable, with many voters seeing him as a fresh and progressive alternative to the incumbent.
Mbindi’s previous political run, though unsuccessful, helped him build a strong network and support base that he is now channeling into his bid for the Sabatia MP seat. Through Mbindi Foundation, the aspirant has been carrying out choir competitions, education initiatives, and social welfare support programs around the constituency.
Another candidate is Nicholas Kitungulu. The current Vihiga County Minister of Agriculture, Kitungulu has yet to publicly announce his interest in running for the Sabatia parliamentary seat.
However, his name has been widely discussed on the ground. Many attribute his widespread popularity to the development projects he has spearheaded within the constituency in his role as a minister.
From agricultural initiatives to rural infrastructure projects, Kitungulu’s work has earned him the goodwill of many Sabatia residents.
Despite the absence of an official campaign, Kitungulu’s name has been repeatedly mentioned in political circles, with some suggesting he may eventually throw his hat into the ring.
His position in the county government could grant him an edge over other candidates.
Three-term Wodanga Ward MCA Vincent Atsiaya is also vying for the seat. Known for his focus on youth empowerment through sports and his criticism of Sloya’s leadership, Atsiaya’s grassroots support and issue-driven campaign could make him a formidable challenger.
Other contenders include Dr. Lusigi, who finished second in 2022 and retains a loyal following, as well as Dominic Baraka (MCA, North Maragoli) and Asiligwa Buchichi, whose strategies remain unclear but could emerge as wildcards in the race.
The Sabatia seat was once held by political heavyweight and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi after he inherited it from his father, Moses Mudamba Mudavadi.
Other notable area MPs include Alfred Agoi and former Vihiga governor Moses Akaranga.
With six wards and approximately 70,875 voters as of 2022, clan affiliations and ward-level dynamics are expected to play a pivotal role in determining the outcome.
“Sabatia has always been unique in its voting patterns,” says Kidaha. “Clan affiliations, the strength of local networks, and party loyalty will all play a critical role in shaping the outcome. Candidates who can balance these dynamics while addressing pressing local issues are likely to gain an edge.”
It was a shame in 2022 when the then ANC party leader, Mudavadi was made to accept that his Sabatia constituency would fall under President William Ruto’s UDA party. Sloya garnered 23,835 votes against Ayodi of ANC, who got 10,539 votes. The result was a big blow to Mudavadi, as Sabatia is his backyard.
Others in the race were Arafat (Independent), who got 2,631 votes, Hudson Andambi (DAP-K) with 1,825 votes, Timothy Kidunduhu (ODM) with 1,496 votes, Dennis Ajenga (PPOK) with 566 votes, Linda Libese (Independent) with 520 votes, Majani Charles (KANU) with 460 votes, and Alex Kidake of Ford-Kenya, who garnered 268 votes.
Sabatia has six wards whose MCAs are; Lyaduywa/Izava – Duncan Abudiku, West Sabatia – Franklin Gidali, Wodanga – Vincent Atsiaya, North Maragoli – Dominic Baraka, Chavakali – Gladys Yalwala, and Busali – Florence Kegode.
According to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, Sabatia constituency had approximately 70,875 voters in 2022.
Both the potential aspirants are still shopping for political parties they will use in 2027.
Political analysts, such as Evans Kidaha, suggest that party affiliations and local interests will further complicate the contest.
“Sabatia has always been unique in its voting patterns,” says Kidaha. “Clan affiliations, the strength of local networks, and party loyalty will all play a critical role in shaping the outcome. Candidates who can balance these dynamics while addressing pressing local issues are likely to gain an edge.”
As the campaigns gather momentum, the people of Sabatia are closely watching how the candidates address critical issues like education, infrastructure, and youth unemployment.
“For voters, the choice will ultimately rest on which candidate can bridge these divides and bring tangible development to the constituency after 2027,” Kidaha said.
Ends
