Confusion has gripped Malava after top UDA ticket contender, Dr. Enock Andanje, formerly of Bungoma High School, collapsed and died during a widows’ empowerment campaign rally in West Kabras.

The event was officiated by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Presidential aide Farouk Kibet.

The late aspirant was set to attend the function at Bulupi Primary School grounds but reportedly collapsed just before taking his seat on the podium.

His death has sent shock waves among other UDA aspirants, with a section of locals pointing fingers at possible political witchcraft.

While confirming his passing during the Malava Boys Boda Empowerment Programme, Musalia Mudavadi stated that he was saddened to learn of the sudden death of Mwalimu Andanje.

The UDA aspirant was an in-law to Farouk Kibet and was also said to be Farouk’s preferred choice for the Malava MP seat on a UDA ticket.

In contrast, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi was said to be backing a weaker candidate, David Ndakwa, who has strong ties to his former party, ANC.

It is alleged that Andanje appeared to be in good spirits earlier in the day but collapsed just minutes to the event.

The sudden death has thrown UDA’s campaign in Malava into turmoil, with elders already whispering about possible witchcraft.

With Andanje’s passing, the UDA ticket now appears destined for either David Ndakwa, Simon Kangwana, Leornard Shimaka or Rhyan Injendi.

As the public awaits the doctors’ autopsy report, questions continue to linger in the minds of many whether foul play was involved or if it was a natural death.