The Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, is now being regarded as the new queen of Malava politics, just months to a hotly contested by-election.

Political pundits say she will have a major influence on who will be elected the next Member of Parliament in the by-election scheduled for November 27, to replace the late MP Moses Injendi Malulu.

Her recent political moves and growing support across the constituency are sending shockwaves through many political camps, as she continues to endear herself to the electorate.

Through developmental programmes both from the government through her ministry and from her personal contributions, Dr Inyangala has curved her place in the area’s politics.

Since her appointment, Inyangala has remained highly visible on the ground making her more popular compared with other appointees who cannot be traced beyond government functions.

Locals continue to flock to her home in Shirugu village daily in search of her input in many aspects of life.

Beneficiaries of her assistance have confirmed that she is always readily available to extend a helping hand.

Through her help, the teaching fraternity and schools, including Matsakha Secondary, Bulupi, Tombo, and Luandeti, have benefitted from funding to improve infrastructure among other benefits.

Dr Inyangala has also ensured that many needy cases gain access to education, even as university fees have been reduced through her efforts.

In addition, many have been handed scholarships and are now studying in various local higher learning institutions while some have secured chances abroad.

She has also been present in empowerment programmes, contributing hundreds of thousands of shillings to support women, youth, widows, and boda boda groups.