President William Ruto's allies have downplayed concerns over a growing number of defections from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), saying the departures will not derail his 2027 re-election bid. The remarks come amid political realignments in the Mt Kenya region, where several leaders have abandoned Ruto's camp or indicated plans to seek alternative parties. Despite this, Ruto's allies insist that the anticipated mass exodus has not materialized.
Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi said UDA remained unconcerned about the defections, arguing that the number of leaders leaving the party was lower than initially anticipated. Wamumbi acknowledged that some politicians would leave the ruling party but dismissed suggestions that the departures would reach significant proportions. He noted that movement between political parties is common ahead of elections.
Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge also argued that the defections should not be interpreted as evidence of a wider revolt against the President. Mathenge maintained that political defections were a normal part of election preparations, noting that politicians across the political divide were changing parties. He cited examples of politicians moving between parties, saying it was a normal phenomenon.
Despite assurances from Ruto's allies, several departures have continued to draw attention to the changing political landscape in Mt Kenya. On October 9, Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja defected from UDA to the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Karanja also announced her intention to challenge Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika in the 2027 General Election.
Karanja's defection adds to a growing list of political realignments involving leaders previously associated with either Ruto's administration or Gachagua's camp. Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba is seeking a new political home after previously moving from Gachagua's side to the government camp. Other leaders have either joined rival formations or indicated they will announce their next moves later.
Political analyst Lawyer Kibe Mungai believes defections from UDA could intensify in the coming months as politicians respond to public dissatisfaction. Mungai predicted that Linda Mwananchi and DCP could emerge as significant political forces ahead of the 2027 election. He warned that the next two to three months could see more politicians change parties.
Ruto's political standing in the Mt Kenya region came under strain following Gachagua's impeachment in October 2024. The government has since responded with development projects, infrastructure investments, and efforts to strengthen Deputy President Kithure Kindiki's regional standing. However, the latest defections suggest that Ruto's support in the region remains under pressure.
Key points
- Defections from UDA have continued to draw attention to the changing political landscape in Mt Kenya.
- Ruto's allies have downplayed concerns over the growing number of defections from UDA.
- Political analyst Lawyer Kibe Mungai believes defections from UDA could intensify in the coming months.
