The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has responded to remarks made by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who reportedly stated that he still believes Raila Odinga won the 2022 presidential election. UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan accused Kenyatta of failing to accept the outcome of the 2022 election, in which William Ruto was declared president. In a press statement, Omar said Kenyatta's position reflects an inability to come to terms with the election outcome.
According to UDA, Kenyatta's remarks demonstrate a continued attempt to undermine the electoral process. The party cited several allegations, including the disappearance of Kenyans who were allegedly committed to the party, threats to former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Wafula Chebukati, and events surrounding the August 15, 2022, final tallying of presidential results at Bomas of Kenya. UDA described Kenyatta's actions as "unconstitutional shenanigans" aimed at subverting the will of Kenyans.
UDA defended Ruto's victory in the 2022 election, stating that he won "decisively and conclusively." The party also highlighted Kenyatta's past reliance on Ruto, who served as his running mate during the 2013 and 2017 elections. According to UDA, Kenyatta's election victories in those years were partly attributable to Ruto's vigorous campaign efforts. However, the party accused Kenyatta of abandoning Ruto after securing his second term in office and choosing to work against his former deputy.
The statement comes as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders and parties increasingly addressing the legacy of the 2022 contest and positioning themselves for the next election. UDA turned its attention to Kenyatta's political future, saying the former president should expect renewed political competition in 2027. The party predicted that President William Ruto would win resoundingly in 2027, putting Kenyatta in a position of further political humiliation.
UDA also questioned Kenyatta's continued focus on the 2022 election outcome, saying he should prepare for a new electoral contest. The party emphasized that Kenyatta's actions reflect a broader pattern of behavior, including attempts to undermine the electoral process before, during, and after the 2022 election. UDA's statement was signed by Hassan Omar Hassan in his capacity as UDA Secretary General.
The exchange between UDA and Kenyatta highlights ongoing tensions within Kenya's political landscape. As the 2027 General Election approaches, leaders and parties are increasingly staking out positions and addressing the legacy of past contests. Kenyatta's remarks have sparked a strong response from UDA, which appears determined to defend Ruto's presidency and assert its own influence in the lead-up to the next election.
The UDA statement concluded by accusing Kenyatta of continuing to dwell on the 2022 election outcome, saying the former president should prepare for what it described as further political humiliation in 2027. With Kenya's politics becoming increasingly competitive, UDA's comments suggest that the party is positioning itself for a strong showing in the next election, potentially at Kenyatta's expense.
Key points
- UDA criticizes Uhuru Kenyatta for remarks suggesting Raila Odinga won the 2022 presidential election.
- The party defends Ruto's victory, saying he won "decisively and conclusively" in 2022.
- UDA predicts Ruto will win resoundingly in 2027, putting Kenyatta in a position of further political humiliation.
