The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has begun preparations for next month’s grassroots elections, signalling what insiders describe as the party’s most ambitious internal reorganisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a virtual meeting with county coordinators and regional leaders, Secretary General Hassan Omar said the party will roll out a nationwide sensitisation exercise between December 8 and 19 to prepare members for the polls. The elections, scheduled to begin on January 10, were approved last week during a joint meeting of the National Executive Committee and the National Elections Board chaired by Deputy President and Deputy Party Leader Kithure Kindiki.
“These elections are critical for strengthening our structures ahead of the next electoral cycle,” Omar told the leaders, urging all aspirants to register on the party portal.
The polls will be conducted in 20 counties, including Bomet, Kakamega, Kirinyaga, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Kiambu, Uasin Gishu, Laikipia, Nyandarua, Kericho, Vihiga, Nyeri, Baringo, Nakuru, Murang’a, Trans Nzoia, Embu, Samburu and Meru.
The exercise comes at a time when UDA is battling internal jostling and factional contests tied to regional influence and national succession politics. Grassroots elections have previously exposed sharp rivalries within the ruling party, with some leaders accusing senior officials of interference and favouritism.
By moving early to organise its structures, UDA hopes to avoid the chaos that marred its last round of internal polls in 2022, where disputes in several counties forced repeat elections and triggered prolonged tribunal battles.
Omar said the party aims to conduct a transparent, tech-driven process, adding that registration and verification will be fully digitised to “eliminate manipulation and instill confidence among members.”
The sensitisation forums are expected to cascade down to ward level, where the fiercest contests traditionally occur. Party officials say the exercise will also be used to educate members on disciplinary rules as UDA moves to rein in dissent and enforce loyalty.
The grassroots polls will determine officials from polling centre level all the way to county branches, forming the backbone of UDA’s national delegate system—which will eventually influence nominations for parliamentary and county positions in 2027.
