President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has stepped up grassroots mobilization efforts in Nyanza, a region historically aligned with the opposition, as part of a comprehensive strategy to secure re-election in 2027.
Over the weekend, UDA intensified its focus in Homabay County, prioritizing ward-level political engagements. Senior government officials hailing from the region, including Internal Security Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo and National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, took part in meetings within their constituencies to rally support.
Homabay County UDA Chairman Ken Obuya underscored the initiative’s objective of building a strong grassroots presence. “We aim to foster robust support for President Ruto, beginning at the ward level, ensuring his leadership is deeply felt in the community,” Obuya said.
Through public forums held across various wards, UDA officials sought to recruit new members and solidify the party’s strategic goals. These forums also provided a platform for voters to directly engage with the party, offering feedback and voicing concerns.
Nyanza UDA Coordinator Okoth Obado highlighted the significance of these efforts in reshaping the region’s political dynamics. “We are working to transform Nyanza’s political culture into one that is more inclusive and responsive to local needs, while building trust with voters,” Obado stated.
A pivotal factor in UDA’s growing influence in Nyanza is President Ruto’s deliberate inclusion of Luo leaders in his administration. Cabinet appointments from the region have fostered a sense of inclusion, softening the historically oppositional stance toward the government.
“This inclusion has not only elevated local leaders to national prominence but also created a more favorable political climate for President Ruto’s re-election bid,” Obado added. Historically, the Luo community has resisted central government policies, citing marginalization and unresolved grievances. However, UDA’s strategic outreach and shifting national political dynamics have begun to erode these long-standing barriers.
As Kenya approaches the 2027 elections, UDA’s grassroots efforts in Nyanza are part of a broader plan to expand its voter base, bridge ethnic and political divides, and secure influence in all regions, including traditional opposition strongholds.
