UDA aspirants in Kisii grow restless as 2027 race takes shape

Political aspirants in Kisii are growing restive as they await the 2027 General Election ticket from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). The uncertainty over UDA's strategy in Gusii politics is fueled by fears that the ruling party might avoid fielding candidates to maintain a friendly relationship with its partner, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

Several aspirants remain in limbo, while others are considering alternative political options. At least one female politician has shown interest in contesting the governorship on a UDA ticket, while three aspirants have expressed interest in the senatorial race and five women are seeking the party's nomination for the Woman Representative seat.

High-profile entrants, such as former Kisii Governor James Ongwae and former State Department administrative official Gideon Oyagi Nyandiricha, are also considering UDA bids, but these intentions remain unconfirmed. The uncertainty is exacerbated by internal debates within UDA about whether to challenge the Kisii Governor, Simba Arati.

While some MPs oppose directly challenging Arati, the party's leader has not provided clarity, which may force aspirants to seek other political platforms. The broader political arithmetic is also complicated by the broad-based government arrangement between President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza administration and ODM. Aspirants are eager to know UDA's stance on competing aggressively for major seats or making concessions as part of wider political negotiations.