Mount Kenya’s Fringe Parties Gear Up to Challenge UDA Dominance

Several fringe parties in the Mt Kenya region are gearing up to challenge the dominance of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

These smaller parties, often overshadowed by larger political entities, are optimistic about their potential to resonate with the electorate and offer alternative leadership choices.

While the UDA has gained significant popularity in the region, these smaller parties believe there is room for diverse political representation as well as fair competition.

In an exclusive interview, Party of Democratic unity (PDU) national chairman Isaiah Gichu has emphasized the need for a broader political spectrum in Mount Kenya ahead of 2027 general election.

“We respect the presence of UDA in our region, but the diversity of opinions and ideas is crucial for a healthy democracy. PDU party aims to offer a fresh perspective and cater to the diverse needs of the people.” Gichu said.

He noted that the party has been holding grassroots mobilization exercise to reclaim their lost glory following the 2022 dismal performance noting that they are not limited in forming a coalition with other deemed small parties in the region for a consolidated approach of the matter.

“People are yearning for options. While UDA has made strides, there are specific issues that some residents feel have not been adequately addressed. Our party seeks to bridge those gaps.” Gichu said.

UDA, however, remains confident in its support base and achievements. During a recent rally in the region

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, during his recent visit to the Mount Kenya region, affirmed the region’s unwavering support for the UDA party, which he described as President Ruto’s political vehicle.

Gachagua played down the necessity of establishing a regional political party in preparation for the upcoming general election.

He asserted that the political machinery would remain robust and influential even after a century.

He dismissed accusations from the Opposition that UDA party has been destroying democracy of small parties by poaching leaders.

He clarified that individuals joining the UDA party are doing so willingly, without any compromises or coercion.

“We are being accused of raiding other political parties, we are not, they are the ones coming to us and what they do not know is that Kenya is a democratic country and if a party knocks to join we open.”

Gatanga MP and UDA legal secretary, Edward Muriu, acknowledged the increasing competition among parties in the Mount Kenya region, emphasizing, “We welcome political diversity; it is the essence of democracy.”

He however, defended the move to begin an early mobilization campaign of the party in the region saying that had President William Ruto not started his campaigns early, he would have faced an uphill task in the 2022 general election.

“UDA party is the most popular party not only in Mount Kenya but across the country, going by the number of seats we won in the last election.” he said.

He expressed the party’s commitment to continuing the mobilization process to strengthen grassroots connections.

“We are proud of what we have accomplished for the people of Mount Kenya. Our track record speaks for itself, and we believe the voters will recognize the progress we’ve made in the next election,” Muriu affirmed.

Political analyst Albert Kasembeli observes that the emergence of these fringe parties in Mount Kenya is a natural evolution in the democratic process.

“As the region diversifies politically, it is expected that smaller parties will rise to address specific issues. This not only enriches the political discourse but also ensures a healthy competition that benefits the electorate.” He said.

However, a section of the region residents have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of these new entrants.

Former Ichagaki MCA, Charles Mwangi Ng’ang’a, a longtime Jubilee party supporter has stated that supporters and voters always ignore the smaller parties and thus lender them ineffective

“UDA proven itself in the last general election by conquering the region, they won almost every seat from ward lever to presidency and their party leaders have been visible in region political sphere. These new parties need to demonstrate what they bring to the table.”Ichagaki said.

He noted that the coming years are poised to witness a heightened political atmosphere in the region as these fringe parties intensify their efforts to carve out a niche for themselves, challenging the established political order led by UDA.

He noted that the electorate will play a pivotal role in determining the success and impact of these emerging political players in the region.

The New Democrats (TND) Party leader Thuo Mathenge during interview with Star said that he believes that it’s time for the electorate to consider alternative voices and ideas for the betterment of the region.

“We understand the challenges facing our people, and the New Democrats Party is here to offer a fresh perspective and innovative solutions. We are not here to compete with established parties but to complement their efforts and provide the people with diverse choices.”          Thuo said.

He noted that he is confident that their party’s progressive agenda aligns with the aspirations of the youth and promises inclusive governance.

People party of Kenya (PPK) national chairman Jacob Gitau has said that having a variety of parties participating in the political arena enriches the region democracy.

He said that the move for multiparty encourages healthy competition, stimulates policy discussions, and ensures that the electorate has diverse choices during the election period.

“Our party envisions a future where everyone has a seat at the table, and we are actively engaging with the youth to ensure their voices are heard and their issues addressed,” Gitau emphasized.

He said that the emergence and mushrooming of these fringe parties signals a potential shift in Mt Kenya’s political landscape, with voters increasingly open to exploring options beyond the traditional political players.

“ As the 2027 elections draw closer, these parties are determined to present themselves as viable alternatives, seeking to reshape the region’s political narrative and address the unique needs of their constituents, “he said.