NAIROBI, Kenya — The conspicuous absence of Embu Governor and UDA national chairperson Cecily Mbarire from a high-level State House meeting convened by President William Ruto has ignited fresh speculation about mounting internal tensions within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The meeting, held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, brought together governors, Cabinet Secretaries, and Principal Secretaries to review progress in county and national government programs. Mbarire, a prominent figure in both national and regional politics, was expected to attend in dual capacity—as governor and UDA party chair.
UDA Chair Skips Key Government Events
Mbarire’s absence followed closely on the heels of her skipping yet another important engagement the same day—a Macadamia Conference in Embu, where Deputy President Kithure Kindiki was the chief guest.
DP Kindiki, attempting to downplay concerns, told attendees, “To demonstrate there are no problems, I bring you greetings from my sister Cecily Mbarire. She could not be with us because the President had called another meeting at 2 pm at State House on livestock vaccination.”
However, the governor’s failure to attend both events has only deepened public curiosity, particularly after she recently accused unnamed government officials of undermining her leadership.
Political Undercurrents in UDA?
Sources within UDA suggest Mbarire’s growing frustration over alleged interference from national-level officials may be fueling her distancing from key party and government activities. Her absence at the State House meeting comes at a time when internal party realignments are underway ahead of 2027, and her role as UDA chairperson places her at the heart of these dynamics.
While the DP’s remarks sought to neutralize speculation, observers note the optics point to a potential rift between Mbarire and senior Kenya Kwanza leadership.
