UDA elections must be held soon, says Ruto as he promises free and fair exercise

President William Ruto arrives at Bomas of Kenya for the UDA National Governing Council meeting. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is set to hold its national elections on December 9, 2023.

Speaking during the party's National Governing Council meeting at the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi on Friday, September 29, President William Ruto termed the elections as key in strengthening the party while promising transparency during the exercise.

"As we are at the moment, none of us was elected to our party positions. This includes myself as the UDA Party leader. Not even my Deputy Gachagua or Secretary-General, Cleopas Malala. We must hold the elections as soon as possible," said Ruto.

"Kikiumana kiumane huko mbele."

Ruto has also asked other affiliate political parties to fold and join UDA to strengthen the Party as it gears up to fully implement its manifesto.

He however stated that no political party should be forced to do so, calling out leaders 'forcing' others to join UDA.

At the same time, Ruto has promised to meet with the elected UDA Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) soon for a closed-door meeting where party issues will be discussed including getting them a platform to air out their grievances.

"As I had promised, we are working on modernities to introduce an MCAs pension kitty so that they are also cushioned the same way MPs are," the UDA Party leader stated.
Ruto also reiterated his earlier promise of ensuring that the county assemblies remain financially independent.

"We have also tasked our leaders of majority in both houses to come up with a tangible legislation to ensure that our counties are financially independent instead of relying on the National Government," he added.

This was the first-ever National Governing Council meeting of UDA since Ruto won the Presidential election in 2022.