Wamalwa leaves Ford-K, sets sights on UDA leadership

Former Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa has been at odds with Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetangula. [File, Standard] 

Former Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa has defected from Ford Kenya and officially joined the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

At the same time, he declared his intention to contest the party’s Secretary General position, currently held by Hassan Omar.

Dr Wamalwa made the announcement on Thursday at Kabuyefwe Boys High School in Trans Nzoia County, during a UDA consultative forum with local opinion leaders.

He said he had consulted President William Ruto earlier this week, who assured him of free and fair party elections.

“The President and I have discussed this and I am now joining UDA to contest the SG position,” Wamalwa said.

The consultative forum, aimed at enabling residents to present their priority development and economic agenda, was co-chaired by Environment Cabinet Secretary Debora Mulongo and Endebess MP Dr Robert Pukose.

Other leaders in attendance included Kenya’s Representative to UN-Habitat Dr Susan Nakhumicha, Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang and County Woman MP Lilian Siyio.

After failing to secure the Trans Nzoia governorship, Wamalwa had hoped for a key role in the Kenya Kwanza administration but felt sidelined.

Last year, he left Ford Kenya and has since been at odds with party leader Moses Wetangula.

Alongside close ally Joseph Pepela, Wamalwa accused Ford Kenya of failing to reward party members despite their contribution during the 2022 polls

Wamalwa criticised his former party for being “managed like personal property” and lacking professionalism. “I have decided to join UDA because of the challenges I faced in Ford Kenya.

Some political outfits are managed as personal property,” he said, expressing confidence in winning the SG seat with the president’s backing.

He pledged to strengthen UDA’s presence in the region, noting that President Ruto had assigned him to spearhead the county’s development agenda.

Wamalwa also dismissed attempts to limit participation in the consultative meeting, insisting it was open to all residents, not selected individuals.

Pukose countered claims that Trans Nzoia has been ignored, noting that Sh1 billion has been released to rehabilitate and equip Kitale County Referral Hospital, while Sh2 billion will operationalize the facility.

Several development projects, including affordable housing, modern markets and the Turbo-Sikhendu-Endebess road, are scheduled for commissioning next month.

Mulongo called for unity among local leaders, noting that collaboration is key to achieving meaningful development.

President Ruto’s team is set to hold consultative meetings across the county’s 25 wards to ensure residents’ needs are addressed.