UDA Malava MP Aspirant Enock Andanje Dies After Collapsing

UDA Malava MP Aspirant Enock Andanje. Photo: Courtesy

United Democratic Alliance (UDA) aspirant for the Malava parliamentary seat, Dr. Enock Musambai Andanje, has died after collapsing during a public event in West Kabras on Friday.

Dr. Andanje was attending a widows’ empowerment forum graced by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi when he suddenly fell ill moments before taking to the podium. Witnesses say he collapsed backstage and was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Speaking to the gathering shortly after receiving the news, Mudavadi broke the sombre announcement.

“While we have been here, I have received a message that one of us, Enock Musambai Andanje, while preparing to come here, has passed away,” he said.

Dr. Andanje, a retired principal of Bungoma High School, had recently declared interest in the UDA ticket for the upcoming Malava by-election. The seat fell vacant following the death of three-term MP Malulu Injendi in February this year. The party primaries to pick its flagbearer were scheduled for September 20, ahead of the November 27 by-election.

His death now throws the race into uncertainty for the ruling party. UDA had been positioning strong contenders in the constituency, with other aspirants including Simon Kangwana, Leonard Shimaka, MCA David Ndakwa, and Rhyan Injendi, the late MP’s son.

In recent days, Mudavadi had toured the constituency urging residents to elect a leader President William Ruto could “fully trust” to champion their interests. His remarks came amid heightened political activity in the area, as candidates intensified grassroots mobilisation ahead of the party primaries.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary’s message was delivered in an atmosphere of shock and grief. Several attendees described Andanje as a respected educationist and community leader whose career in public service had earned him widespread admiration.

Dr. Andanje’s sudden demise is the second major loss for Malava Constituency within a year, coming just months after the passing of Injendi. Political analysts say the development will likely reshape local alliances and campaign strategies as parties prepare to name fresh candidates.

The UDA leadership is yet to announce the next steps following his death, but condolences have poured in from across the political divide, with leaders hailing him as a dedicated servant to the community.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family in consultation with the party in the coming days.