Fringe parties within Kenya Kwanza, the coalition led by Deputy President William Ruto, have escalated tensions over UDA's push for a six-piece voting strategy that prioritizes party unity in key elections.
Farmer Party chairman Irungu Nyakera accused UDA of undermining alliance cohesion, citing recent campaigns by Ruto's running mate Rigathi Gachagua that allegedly targeted smaller parties. "The UDA is treating partners with contempt, poisoning serenity with hostility," Nyakera said, referencing Gachagua's calls for supporters to back UDA candidates across all levels of government.
Gachagua, selected as Ruto's vice-presidential pick on May 15, has actively campaigned against fringe parties in Mt Kenya counties. He argued that UDA's dominance is critical to preventing Jubilee Party interference in the region's political agenda.
The six-piece voting pattern involves selecting candidates from the same party for president, governor, senator, MP, woman representative, and ward representative. Nyakera warned this approach risks fracturing Mt Kenya's electoral base, which is vital for Ruto's national campaign against Raila Odinga.
Service Party leader Mwangi Kiunjuri called for unity, stating, "We must avoid creating bad blood while competing. The common goal is to ensure Mt Kenya remains behind Ruto against Azimio's combined forces." However, internal divisions persist as multiple parties contest the same seats.
In Kiambu, UDA's Kimani Wamatangi faces Chama Cha Kazi's Moses Kuria and Tujibebe Wakenya's William Kabogo in the gubernatorial race. Murang'a sees UDA's Irungu Kang'ata competing against multiple candidates, including Nyakera. Kuria emphasized focus on the presidential race, stating, "All efforts should concentrate there. Other conflicts are petty."
UDA secretary-general Veronica Maina acknowledged ongoing negotiations to harmonize contest strategies but emphasized UDA's role as Ruto's "point men" in key races. She noted challenges in coordinating with affiliate parties over governor, senator, and MP seats.
Political analyst Prof Ngugi Njoroge highlighted the risks of fragmented campaigns, warning that multiple candidates for the same presidential ticket could dilute votes. He recommended pre- and post-election partnership agreements to ensure stability.
