Political bigwigs bet on UDA for top seats

The party has become a magnet not only for first-time aspirants but also for seasoned politicians, with unprecedented numbers seeking to contest for various elective seats on the UDA ticket.

As Kenya barrels towards the 2027 polls, the ruling party is bracing for one of the most competitive nomination seasons in its history.

Thousands of aspirants are already jostling for positions across the country’s legislative landscape.

Party insiders say the early interest signals confidence in the party’s electoral machinery and its perceived ability to deliver victory at the ballot.

Among those lining up to fly the UDA flag are high-profile political figures and emerging leaders.

The party has confirmed that a record 12,235 aspirants have so far registered to contest on its ticket in the 2027 General Election.

The surge follows the establishment of the UDA Aspirants Forum, a platform designed to formally integrate aspirants into party structures and activities as preparations for the next electoral cycle gather momentum.

UDA says the overwhelming response reflects its strong grassroots presence nationwide.

According to the party, the highest number of fully paid-up aspirants has come from the Rift Valley and Mt Kenya regions, areas traditionally regarded as its strongholds. 

However, party officials say growth in other regions is equally significant, pointing to expanding confidence in UDA’s leadership and organisational strength.

In a statement shared on February 4, the party highlighted notable regional trends since the 2022 election.

“Rift Valley and Mt Kenya regions continue to lead with the highest number of fully paid-up aspirants, a clear sign of strong grassroots confidence and organisational strength,” the party said.

“Even more encouraging is that Coast region and Western Kenya are the most improved regions since 2022 in the number of paid-up aspirants. That growth speaks to expanding trust, renewed energy and a party that is steadily taking root across the country.”

The list of aspirants already includes prominent political figures who have either returned to active politics or realigned themselves with the ruling party.

Among them is Moses Kuria, the outspoken former Cabinet Secretary and long-time political figure from Kiambu county, who has declared his intention to contest the Gatundu South parliamentary seat on the UDA ticket in 2027.

Kuria, who has previously served as both a legislator and a senior government official, says a return to Parliament would offer him a strategic platform to influence national policy.

His bid follows his decision to ditch his Chama Cha Kazi party and formally realign with UDA in what he has described as a decisive political comeback.

In Western Kenya, Ayub Savula, the Deputy Governor of Kakamega county, has also emerged as a key UDA hopeful.

Savula recently defected from the Democratic Action Party-Kenya and has announced plans to vie for the Kakamega gubernatorial seat on the ruling party’s ticket.

His move signals a notable political realignment in a region long dominated by opposition parties, with Savula positioning himself as a challenger to incumbent Governor Fernandes Barasa.

Neighbouring Vihiga county has also seen fresh political activity, with Kahi Indimuli stepping into the political arena.

A veteran educator and former chairman of the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association, Indimuli has declared his intention to contest the Vihiga governorship in 2027.

Though not a career politician, his entry highlights how UDA’s platform is attracting candidates from diverse professional backgrounds.

In Kiambu county, Gathoni Wamuchomba remains one of the party’s key figures.

Meanwhile, in Trans Nzoia county, former Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa continues to consolidate his position in UDA after defecting from Ford Kenya.

Despite the enthusiasm, the sheer number of aspirants has sparked debate among political observers over whether the party can conduct fair and credible nominations.

UDA has clarified that it is not mandatory for incumbents elected on its ticket to register as aspirants at this stage.

“We urge all members to remain calm, informed and united as we continue to strengthen the party,” UDA said.