Kenyan President William Ruto has welcomed Aisha Jumwa back to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), reversing her decision to quit the ruling party in July. Jumwa, a former Cabinet Secretary, met Ruto at State House in Mombasa, where he expressed his enthusiasm to work with her to advance the party's transformation agenda. This development marks a significant turnaround in Jumwa's political career, which had taken a dramatic turn barely four months ago.
Jumwa's return to UDA comes after she announced her departure from the party in July, citing disagreements over her political ambitions in Kilifi. She had accused the party of frustrating her bid to contest the Kilifi governorship in the 2027 General Election. Her exit triggered a series of political engagements with opposition figures, including Siaya Governor James Orengo's Linda Mwananchi movement and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka's party.
Jumwa's decision to leave UDA was prompted by her dissatisfaction with what she described as humiliation and exclusion from the party and government. Despite being among UDA's founding members and a key mobiliser for President Ruto at the Coast, she felt sidelined. Her return to the party now places her back in the ruling party as political alignments take shape ahead of the elections.
Aisha Jumwa is a prominent political figure at the Coast, having served as Kilifi Woman Representative and Malindi MP before becoming Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage. Her return to UDA raises questions about the party's position in the Kilifi gubernatorial contest, where Governor Gideon Mung'aro is seeking a second term on an ODM ticket.
Jumwa's return to UDA may have significant implications for the 2027 General Election. Her earlier bid for the Kilifi governor's seat is still unclear, and it is uncertain whether she has been given a new role in the party or government. The President's statement did not provide any clarification on these issues.
The development is likely to draw attention in Kilifi, where the contest for the governorship is expected to be a key political battleground in 2027. Jumwa's return to UDA may also affect the party's strategy in the region, particularly in light of her previous disagreements with party leaders.
President Ruto's decision to welcome Jumwa back to UDA reflects the party's commitment to uniting leaders and Kenyans around its vision of a united, inclusive and prosperous country. The move is seen as a significant development in Kenyan politics, with implications for the 2027 General Election and the country's future.
Key points
- Aisha Jumwa's return to UDA reverses her dramatic exit in July.
- Jumwa's return may impact the Kilifi gubernatorial contest in 2027.
- President Ruto welcomes Jumwa back to UDA, citing the party's transformation agenda.
