The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has taken a significant step toward consolidating support in Mbeere North ahead of the looming by-election.

In a strategic move to maintain its influence in the constituency, nine aspirants seeking the party’s ticket gathered for a two-day retreat in Naivasha.

The meeting follows the appointment of former area MP Geoffrey Ruku as Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, leaving the seat vacant.

Led by party chairperson Cecily Mbarire, the retreat aimed to promote internal cohesion and reaffirm UDA’s commitment to servant leadership.

In an official statement released after the meeting, the party emphasised the importance of integrity, unity, and inclusivity throughout the nomination process.

“The United Democratic Alliance continues to affirm its commitment to unity, development, and servant leadership,” read part of the statement dated July 27, 2025.

Focus on nominations

The gathering offered a platform for aspirants to reflect on development priorities for the region while pledging to uphold party values. The aspirants expressed gratitude for Ruku’s elevation, terming it a recognition of the region’s growing voice in national governance.

The retreat also served as an avenue to review current and planned development initiatives, with the statement noting that the meeting was used to “review current and future development that can transform the lives of the people.” It further emphasised the need for a fair and transparent nomination process that ensures credibility and inclusivity.

Notable aspirants at the meeting included Dominic Murage and Daniel Mbongo, among others. All nine hopefuls were urged to uphold party discipline and contribute positively to the campaign, with UDA projecting a united front to retain the seat.

Commitments

The party’s leadership reiterated its commitment to walking with the people, pledging to ensure that the nomination process would be beyond reproach. “All candidates were assured of a transparent and credible nomination process… aspirants to contribute positively not only to the campaign but also to the continued growth of the Constituency, the County, and the Nation,” the statement read.

As the nomination race heats up, UDA is expected to face stiff competition from opposition candidates such as Newton Karish of the Democratic Party. However, the party is banking on its internal unity and development track record to secure victory.

“The UDA stands strong in the belief that leadership is about service and that collective vision delivers lasting change,” concluded the statement, signed by Cecily Mbarire and other senior party officials.