The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party has paved the way for grassroots elections within the ruling party, set to take place on December 9, 2023.
During the inaugural National Governing Council (NGC) meeting at the Bomas of Kenya, President William Ruto, who graced the event, directed current party officials led by Secretary General Cleophas Malala to ensure the elections maintain transparency and fairness.
President Ruto also appealed to the NGC to facilitate discussions with other political parties interested in merging their factions with UDA. In attendance at the UDA’s NGC meeting were all elected Governors, Members of Parliament, Members of the County Assemblies, and the party leader and deputy.
“Having followed the party constitution, this meeting is now procedurally called and can now transact business,” declared Malala.
At the Bomas of Kenya, the impending elections loomed large, with President Ruto, who also serves as UDA’s party leader, emphasizing that no party positions will be handed out freely.
“Nobody will be given a seat on a platter…everyone must be elected by the party members,” Ruto asserted.
UDA, boasting 7.2 million registered members, plans to employ technology to ensure the transparency of the grassroots polls.
“Mimi sina kiti kwa chama ya kuchaguliwa…hata Malala hapa hajachaguliwa na delegates…sisi wote tunashikilia tu kwa sasa,” Ruto noted.
Malala added: “Your Excellency, we want to build a strong party, and we are going to open party branches across Kenya, starting with Homa Bay. We want you to accompany us on the 7th of next week to Homa Bay.”
While UDA prepares for its party elections, discussions about the dissolution of smaller parties within the Kenya Kwanza coalition to form a formidable force have surfaced. Calls have been made for Ford Kenya and ANC parties to consider merging with UDA.
“I am also requesting permission from the NGC to allow us to engage with other parties…those willing to join us, and even those who are not, will not be coerced,” stated Ruto.
Malala has been at the forefront of advocating for other parties in the Kenya Kwanza coalition to disband and unite with UDA ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“Kuna wengine wetu hapa wamekuwa mstari wa mbele kuambia vyama vingine lazima waungane na sisi…si lazima, ni hiari,” Ruto emphasized.
President Ruto promised to address the welfare of the Members of the County Assemblies and vowed to ensure they receive pensions, similar to Members of Parliament.
“MCAs, you will come to State House, and we will discuss…you must receive pensions, and you must be independent in your work,” said the President.
