President Ruto's aide, Farouk Kibet, in West Kabras on February 3, 2026/COURTESY




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President William Ruto’s aide, Farouk Kibet, has returned to Western Kenya, focusing on West Kabras Ward as campaigns intensify ahead of the MCA by-election scheduled for February 26, 2026.

Kibet, a political operative within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, has previously been involved in mobilising support for candidates in the region, including during the November 2025 by-elections for Malava MP.

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On Tuesday, Kibet toured various parts of West Kabras Ward alongside Malava MP David Ndakwa, meeting residents and supporting UDA candidate Elphas Shalakha.

The leaders urged voters to consider candidates aligned with the current government and emphasised the importance of cooperative engagement for local development.

During the gatherings, Kibet encouraged residents to prioritise unity and development, while cautioning against political divisions.

“Those who are preaching division have no agenda for the people,” he said, adding that working with the government could help address local needs.

Shalakha won the UDA party ticket after emerging victorious in the party primaries, which were held across several polling centres in early January.

Results were tallied at Imbiakhalo Church of God, the official UDA tallying centre for West Kabras Ward.

Party officials described the nomination exercise as peaceful and orderly.

MP Ndakwa attended the nomination process, commending residents for their turnout and the aspirants for participating in a competitive and peaceful exercise.

Shalakha is expected to face Bramwel Khaemba of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) in the by-election.

The West Kabras Ward seat became vacant following Ndakwa’s election as MP for Malava Constituency.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has urged candidates and voters to maintain peace as campaigns officially begin, calling for issue-based campaigns and adherence to electoral guidelines.

With national figures now participating on the ground, the West Kabras Ward by-election is attracting attention as a closely watched contest, highlighting local political dynamics in the region.