UDA postpones grassroots polls to mourn MP

UDA has postponed its repeat grassroots elections slated for Saturday, March 7, following the tragic death of Emurua Dikir MP Johana Ng’eno.

UDA National Elections Board (NEB) said this is in solidarity with the period of national mourning and respect for the legislator.

“In respect to and in solidarity with the subsequent period of mourning, we have found it necessary to adjust our timelines accordingly,” the notice read in part.

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The postponement is intended to allow members and leaders time to grieve without the distraction of political contests.

UDA chairman Anthony Mwaura said the party recognises the gravity of the loss and the need to show “respect and unity” during this difficult period.

The repeat Phase III polls have been moved to Saturday, March 14.

Counties affected include Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Samburu, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Baringo, Laikipia, Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet and Vihiga.

The party also announced new dates for the Repeat Phase II Grassroots Elections, which will now take place on Thursday, April 9 in 25 counties including Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, Taita Taveta, Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, Turkana, Kajiado, Bungoma, Siaya, Kisumu, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira and Kakamega counties.

The move came as the nation continues to mourn the death of Ng’eno, who was killed alongside five others in a helicopter crash in Mosop, Nandi county on February 28.

The accident occurred in the Chepkiep forest area shortly after the aircraft made an emergency landing caused by bad weather and then attempted to take off again, according to police reports.

Ng’eno, 54, was a three-term lawmaker first elected in 2013. He was serving his third consecutive term under the UDA ticket at the time of his death.

Known for his passionate advocacy on issues such as land rights, community development and housing policy, he previously chaired the Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works in the National Assembly and played a role in passing the Affordable Housing Act, 2024.

The other victims included the pilot Captain George Were, Amos Kipngetich Rotich, a forester and bodyguard, Nick Koskei, a cameraman; and two others whose identities are yet to be confirmed as investigations continue.

Parliament and national leaders have been paying tribute to Ng’eno’s service and leadership.

Several leaders described the incident as a “profound sorrow” for the country and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.