When 27-year-old Rhyan Malulu threw his hat into the political ring, he carried the hopes of a generation yearning for fresh voices in leadership.

But in the wake of the UDA nominations, those hopes now stand bruised amid allegations of betrayal, political manipulation, and bribery involving senior political figures.

Names such as Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, and Governor Fernandez Barasa have been whispered in connection with the saga, leaving supporters asking one question: Did money and backroom deals silence a young man’s democratic dream?

Democracy Shaken

For Rhyan, the nomination process was more than just politics. It was supposed to be a test of faith in democracy — a chance to show that even young, first-time contestants could win fairly if they had the people’s support.

Instead, he walked away feeling cheated.

“Rhyan believed in the system,” says a youth leader from Malava constituency who requested anonymity. “But what happened shook his faith in politics. It wasn’t just a loss; it was betrayal in broad daylight.”

The Law on Bribery Is Clear

Legal experts say Rhyan may have a strong case if he chooses to head to court.

“The Election Offences Act, 2016, Section 9 is unambiguous,” notes Advocate Peter Wanyama, a constitutional lawyer. “Bribery or inducements in any electoral process — whether during voting or nominations — are criminal offences punishable by up to six years in prison or a fine of two million shillings. If there is evidence, the courts can and will act.”

Kenya’s judiciary has in the past annulled elections over bribery and irregularities, setting precedents Rhyan’s lawyers could rely on.

A Movement Rising from Betrayal

But beyond the courts, there is a growing political undercurrent. Many young people across Kakamega feel Rhyan’s story mirrors their own frustrations with a system that often rewards money over merit.

“This isn’t just about one man,” says Linet Achieng, a youth activist in Kakamega Town. “It’s about whether young Kenyans have a real chance in politics or if the game is rigged before it begins. Rhyan standing up will speak for all of us.”

Supporters are now rallying behind Edgar Burudi, a rival candidate seen as the answer to what they call betrayal by the political establishment.

Two-Front Battle: Courts and Ballots

Political analysts say Rhyan’s next steps could shape not only his political future but also youth participation in politics.

“If Rhyan files a petition, it will test the strength of Kenya’s electoral laws,” says Dr. Samuel Kariuki, a political science lecturer at Masinde Muliro University. “And if he mobilizes the youth vote behind Burudi as a form of political payback, it could change the race entirely.”

The dual strategy — fighting in court while rallying voters — could turn Rhyan from a betrayed contestant into a symbol of youth resistance against corruption in politics.

Revenge Through Justice

Those close to Rhyan insist this is not about bitterness but about justice.

“They betrayed him thinking he would walk away,” says David Simiyu, a member of Rhyan’s campaign team. “But he will fight back — not with chaos, but with the law, with the truth, and with the power of the people.”

Observers agree that if successful, Rhyan’s case could redefine the boundaries of political accountability in Kenya.

The Bigger Picture

Ultimately, Rhyan’s story raises deeper questions: Can young, first-time contestants ever trust the system? Can democracy survive if nominations and elections can be bought?

As his supporters prepare for what they call “revenge with vengeance,” one thing is certain — this fight is no longer about one man’s nomination. It is about the soul of democracy itself.

And if Rhyan Malulu rises from this betrayal to challenge the system in court and at the ballot, he may yet inspire a generation to believe that justice, though delayed, is never truly denied.