The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has reaffirmed that Deputy President Kithure Kindiki will remain its running mate in the 2027 general elections, dismissing speculation over possible changes within the ruling coalition.
Speaking at a press briefing at the party’s headquarters on Friday, February 27, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar declared that the party’s position on the deputy president is firm despite emerging political debates.
“As other people might have opinions, opinions are welcome; that’s part of negotiations. I have heard those opinions. But as UDA, Professor Kindiki is our Deputy President and running mate in 2027,” Omar said.
His remarks come amid growing political conversations, particularly from sections of leaders allied to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), who have expressed interest in the deputy president slot ahead of the next polls.
The ODM faction led by party leader Oburu Odinga has reportedly pushed for a renegotiation of positions within the broader political arrangement.
However, leaders from the Mount Kenya region allied to UDA have maintained that the deputy president’s position is not up for negotiation.
They argue that Kindiki has demonstrated loyalty and dedication in his role and deserves the party’s backing going into the next election cycle.
Former UDA Secretary General Veronica Maina defended the party’s earlier decision to support Kindiki’s nomination, saying his performance had justified their choice.
“Through his unwavering loyalty and the people of Kenya, Professor Kindiki has vindicated our position in 2024 when we identified him as the most suitable leader for nomination and appointment as the country’s second in command,” she said.
The declaration places President William Ruto at the centre of delicate political calculations as he seeks to consolidate support ahead of 2027.
UDA leaders expressed confidence that the party remains firmly in control politically, pointing to its recent by-election victories as evidence of sustained grassroots support.
In the mini polls, UDA won all four contested seats in elections marked by low voter turnout.
In Isiolo South Constituency, Mohammed Tubi secured 7,352 votes, defeating Jubilee’s Bina Tubi, who garnered 634 votes.
In Embu County, Duncan Muratia won the Evurore seat with 7,853 votes, while Peterson Njeru clinched the Muminji ward seat with 3,207 votes. Elphas Shalakha carried the West Kabras seat in Kakamega County with 3,317 votes.
Omar dismissed critics who questioned the party’s dominance in some of the areas.
“You guys are simplistic in this Kenyan politics. That was Raila’s base. Look at where it has moved. That’s why we have not lost an election in that area since,” he stated.
