Rhyan Injendi, son of the late Malava MP Malulu Injendi, has announced his bid to succeed his father in a move signalling political dynasties’ enduring influence.
Malava Member of Parliament Malulu Injendi during a past political event in April 2023. Malulu Injendi
The declaration came during a prayer service honouring the late legislator, attended by senior United Democratic Alliance (UDA) figures, including President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, and Chief Whip Sylvanus Osoro.
Rhyan framed his ambition as a tribute, posing: “If a teacher’s child follows their footsteps, it’s celebrated. Why should it be different for me, seeking to continue my father’s legacy as MP?”
This follows earlier speculation about a family successor during Malulu’s burial in February, which saw President Ruto and Western Kenya leaders in attendance.
Rhyan, a Kenyatta University PhD candidate with a University of Nairobi MBA, previously drew scrutiny during burial arrangements.
He faced online backlash for prioritising gratitude towards Ruto—who provided a helicopter to transport his father’s body—over familial mourning.
His political entry aligns with a trend of heirs leveraging name recognition, bolstered by high-profile alliances.
Ryan Injendi in a past event. Image Courtesy
The UDA’s visible support hints at party endorsement, though rivals may frame the bid as nepotism.
Malulu, a first-term MP elected in 2022, died in February after a short illness, leaving a vacuum in the Kakamega County constituency.
Analysts note Rhyan’s academic profile and political connections strengthen his candidacy, yet grassroots appeal remains untested.
The electoral commission has yet to announce by-election dates, with opponents likely to emerge from local factions.
Observers warn the race could deepen debates on political inheritance versus meritocracy in Kenya’s evolving democracy.
As aspirants jostle, Malava voters weigh nostalgia for the late MP against demands for fresh leadership.
Source: Kenyans.co.ke
