Former Bungoma High School principal and United Democratic Alliance (UDA) aspirant for the Malava Constituency seat, Enock Andanje, has died suddenly while attending a political event in Kakamega County, sparking shock and grief across the region.
The incident occurred on the morning of Friday, August 8, 2025, during a widows’ empowerment forum presided over by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. According to eyewitnesses, Mr. Andanje had just arrived at the venue and was alighting from his vehicle when he appeared to develop sudden health complications.
Those nearby rushed to assist him, but despite immediate intervention and efforts to resuscitate him, he collapsed. He was pronounced dead while being rushed to a nearby hospital.
Mudavadi Confirms Tragic News
The sombre news was delivered by Prime CS Mudavadi himself, who paused the event to make the announcement.
“While we were seated here, I received news that one of us, Enock Andanje, has died,” Mudavadi told attendees, leaving the crowd in shock.
The unexpected announcement sent murmurs through the congregation, with many attendees visibly shaken. News of his death quickly spread across social media, where residents, political allies, and former students mourned the late educator and politician.
Political Journey and Career
Mr. Andanje, who had taken early retirement from his role as Chief Principal, was an influential figure in the education sector before venturing into politics. He was among several aspirants seeking the UDA ticket for the Malava Constituency by-election, following the death of former MP Malulu Injendi in February 2025.
In recent months, Andanje had been actively engaging with residents, attending grassroots events, and presenting his development agenda for Malava. His presence at the widows’ empowerment forum was part of his outreach efforts ahead of the party primaries, which were scheduled to take place in the coming weeks.
Cause of Death Still Unknown
The exact cause of death has not yet been established. Close family members, friends, and supporters have expressed deep sorrow and called for an autopsy to clarify the circumstances surrounding his sudden passing.
Upcoming By-Elections
Andanje’s death comes just a week after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) announced that all by-elections for vacant seats in wards, constituencies, and counties would be held on November 27, 2025. In a gazette notice dated Friday, August 8, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon listed Malava Constituency among the electoral areas preparing for the polls.
Tributes and Legacy
Residents have hailed Andanje as a dedicated educator, community leader, and politician who was committed to uplifting Malava. Many recall his time as a principal, where he mentored hundreds of students and pushed for academic excellence.
Messages of condolences continue to pour in from political leaders, teachers’ associations, and former students, painting a picture of a man who left an indelible mark on both education and politics.
