UDA conducts repeat grassroots elections in 18 counties amid minor glitches

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has conducted repeat grassroots elections in 18 counties, selecting party representatives in about 9,000 polling stations.

The exercise attracted more than 500,000 candidates seeking various party positions at the polling station level.

Deputy party leader and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said the elections were largely free and fair and are critical to strengthening the party’s grassroots structures, although minor technical challenges were reported in some counties.

“The party is stronger if it is strong at the grassroots. When those who speak on behalf of the people are elected by party members, then you have a strong party,” said Kindiki.

In Githunguri Constituency in Kiambu County, some aspirants complained that their names were missing from the candidates’ list.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah said the party will review the complaints and may repeat the exercise in affected areas.

“Where candidates were missing from the list, we will engage the National Elections Board, and where it is necessary, we may have to repeat some of those elections,” Ichung’wah said.

Grassroots elections were also held in Kericho and Samburu counties, where hundreds of members turned out to vote for their preferred candidates.

Samburu Governor Lati Lelelit praised the use of technology in managing the process saying: “If UDA can do this, IEBC, which is funded by a lot of taxpayers’ money, should be able to do it.”

Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot added, “Those forming village parties and saying they will catch up with UDA should know that when the time comes, they will not.”

However, turnout in Bomet County was low, with some members saying voters were not adequately informed about the exercise.

“Grassroots mobilisation should have been stronger so people knew voting was going on and could come out to participate,” said party member Vicky Chepkorir.

Following the polling station elections, the party is expected to conduct ward-level elections next month as it continues to strengthen its grassroots leadership structures ahead of the 2027 general election.