Wamatangi mulls ditching UDA after fallout

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has made it clear that he will not seek re-election under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. This decision stems from his frustrations and the perception of political persecution by the state since he assumed office in 2022. The governor plans to unveil his new political platform for the 2027 General Elections in December, signaling a significant shift from his previous alignment.

Wamatangi's discontent with the current government has only intensified public dissatisfaction, leaving the ruling party struggling with unpopularity. He intends to complete his development agenda before focusing on early campaigns, emphasizing the completion of 512 ECDEs, 32 new hospitals, installation of 12,000 solar lights, provision of water, support for agriculture, and other infrastructure projects. However, he acknowledges that work on roads remains ongoing.

This move marks Wamatangi as the third sitting governor in the Mt Kenya region to depart from the ruling party ticket, following in the footsteps of Muran'ga's Irungu Kan’gata and Kiarie Badilisha (of Nyandarua). The governor's decision to abandon the UDA signals a significant change in his political trajectory, having been at odds with the national government since his election in 2022.

He attributes his tribulations to his refusal to permit politicians allied with the government to seize public land in Gatuanyaga, Thika, which had been surrendered by fruit processor Delmote Kenya.

The governor's decision comes after a highly publicized raid on his residence in Kabete, Kiambu, conducted by the EACC and heavily armed police officers on April 15, 2025. The raid was in connection with allegations of graft relating to Sh1.5 billion procurement deals in Kiambu County. Additionally, businesses linked to the governor near Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi were demolished in a dawn raid, further exacerbating the tensions between Wamatangi and the government.