Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina has defended her decision to remain in the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) even as she openly aligns herself with the Democratic Change Party (DCP).

The Kirinyaga Woman Representative cited ideological divergence and the practical realities of Kenyan politics that have informed her decision to stay in UDA.

Njeri argued that political parties in Kenya are often treated as vehicles for electoral success rather than institutions grounded in firm ideology.

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“We find political parties as vehicles; we don’t find theminn ideologies. If UDA had been founded on ideologies and adhered to them, I would not feel the need to shift allegiance to one that aligns with my ideological thinking,” she said.

She maintained that if parties strictly upheld ideological principles, the law would compel her to resign and seek a fresh mandate under a different political outfit.

However, she noted that the Kenyan political landscape is fluid, with politicians frequently shifting affiliations.

“Given that it is the custom in Kenya to crisscross. I think it is the nature of our politics that demands that shift. It is a freedom of expression, and the constitution is supreme to my other laws from where I sit. I have been particular about what I stand for. UDA purported to sell a narrative, which is the reason I joined; however, it deviated from that. Why should I be bound to a party that deviates from its own ideologies?” she said.

She emphasised that her support for DCP is anchored on principle, noting that her loyalty remains conditional on ideological consistency.

Njeri said her initial decision to join UDA was based on the party’s stated agenda, which she now believes it has departed from.

The legislator also acknowledged that the law allows her to run as an independent candidate, an option she says she could consider in the future.

“I’m supporting DCP as a matter of principle. I have been clear that if DCP were to form a government and deviate from the same, I would be unable to associate myself. I have the option of vying as an independent candidate because it is provided for in the law, if it is something that I would consider, certainly,” she said.

On calls for her resignation, Maina dismissed the idea, arguing that triggering a by-election would be financially irresponsible.

“Why would I cost the Kenyan taxpayer over Sh100 million to conduct a by-election in Kirinyaga when we have a deficiency in school funding? That is not good practice in politics,” she said.

She said her decision was one guided by public interest, especially amid the current economic challenges facing Kenyans.

“It would not be prudent, as a leader who understands the struggles of the Kenyan people, to resign for political reasons,” she added.