Former Nairobi Governor Anne Kananu has defected from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and joined the National Economic Democratic Party (NEDP) as political realignments continue ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kananu was unveiled by former Nairobi Governor and NEDP leader Mike Sonko on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, Sonko announced that Kananu had officially joined NEDP and would contest for the Maara Constituency parliamentary seat in Tharaka Nithi County on the party ticket.
“Today, we proudly welcome H.E. Anne Kananu to NEDP after her official defection from UDA. She will be seeking the Maara Constituency parliamentary seat in Tharaka Nithi County on the NEDP ticket,” Sonko said.
The NEDP leader said the party would focus on addressing key challenges affecting residents of Maara, including poverty, infrastructure gaps, unemployment and access to essential services.
“Together, we are committed to fighting poverty, improving infrastructure, creating jobs, expanding access to quality education and clean water, and restoring hope to the people of Maara. Karibu NEDP, Anne Kananu. The future is here,” Sonko stated.
While welcoming Kananu into the party, Sonko clarified that joining NEDP would not automatically guarantee any aspirant a direct nomination.
He said all candidates seeking elective positions would be required to engage voters on the ground and compete through a transparent party nomination process.
“Taking a photo with me or joining NEDP does not guarantee a direct party nomination. Every aspirant must go to the ground, earn the support of the people, and compete fairly in our party primaries. NEDP believes in free, fair, and democratic nominations,” Sonko said.
Kananu’s move adds to the growing list of political shifts as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election, with parties seeking to strengthen their influence across different regions.
