Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) politician Edgar Busiega is mourning the death of his father, just days after withdrawing from the Malava Constituency by-election.
Busiega announced the loss on Sunday, November 16, through a heartfelt social media statement, revealing that his father died at around 9:30 a.m.
“It is with immense pain that I share this heartbreaking news: We lost Dad this morning,” he wrote, describing his father as a pillar who profoundly shaped his life.
“I haven’t just lost a father; I’ve lost a friend, a confidant, and the one person whose advice always anchored me. The weight of this loss is overwhelming.”
At the time of his announcement, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s party had not issued an official statement of condolence.
Loss Comes Days After Withdrawing From Race
The tragedy comes shortly after Busiega stepped down from the Malava parliamentary by-election following an agreement within the United Opposition to rally behind DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako.
On October 30, DAP-K confirmed that Busiega voluntarily withdrew to support Panyako’s candidacy. Panyako later thanked DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua and deputy Cleophas Malala for endorsing the decision.
Busiega has since taken up a key role within the opposition, overseeing the DCP’s legal affairs for the remainder of the election period. Malala additionally pledged to grant Busiega a direct DCP ticket for the 2027 parliamentary race.
Malava By-Election Background
The Malava seat fell vacant following the death of MP Moses Malulu Injendi on February 17 after weeks of hospitalisation.
The upcoming by-election has attracted several contenders, with Panyako facing stiff competition from UDA candidate David Ndakwa.