Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s Umoja na Maendeleo Party held a large-scale delegates recruitment drive on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at her ranch in Ntumbiri.

Hundreds of supporters were seen donning the party’s branded attire as they lined up to be registered under the Kawira-led political outfit. Kawira Mwangaza took to social media to welcome all Kenyans to the event, expressing gratitude for the turnout and enthusiasm.

The event was marked by pomp and colour, with the venue fully decorated in the party’s signature colours—gold, green, and white. A red carpet stretched across the grounds while traditional dancers entertained delegates throughout the day, creating a festive atmosphere.

The delegates’ registration drive is part of the party’s broader strategy to solidify its grassroots presence ahead of the 2027 general election.

“The LORD has done this, and it is marvellous in our eyes. We are set. Delegates are trooping in thousands.” Kawira stated.

Upcoming by-elections

This comes days after the party announced its participation in the upcoming by-elections across Kenya.

This move marks a significant step in Mwangaza’s political comeback following her impeachment earlier this year.

Taking to her official social media channels, on Friday, July 18, 2025, Mwangaza named the seats for which the party will field candidates in the upcoming by-elections.

“UMOJA NA MAENDELEO Party will participate in the upcoming by-elections,” she announced.

UMP is set to field a candidate for the Senate seat in Baringo County, while six candidates will contest the parliamentary seats in various constituencies.

“Parliamentary Seats: Magarini Constituency, Kilifi County, Banissa Constituency, Mandera County, Ugunja Constituency, Siaya County, Malava Constituency, Kakamega County, Mbeere North Constituency, Embu County and Kasipul Constituency, Homa Bay County,” Mwangaza said.

UMP will field nine candidates for county assembly positions in various wards across the country.

“Angata Nanyokie Ward, Kajiado County, Chewani Ward, Tana River County, Fafi Ward, Garissa County, Kisa East Ward, Kakamega County, Lake Zone Ward, Homa Bay County, Mumbuni Ward, Machakos County, Narok Town Ward, Narok County, Nyamaiya Ward, Nyamira County and Nyansiongo Ward, Nyamira County,” she added.

UMP

On July 4, 2025, the former governor was named the new leader of UMP. The announcement was made public by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) through a gazette notice, which confirmed she is taking over from Charles Wambora Mugambi.

According to the Registrar of Political Parties, Anne Nderitu, anyone who disagrees with Mwangaza’s appointment as party leader has seven days to submit their concerns in writing.

“Any person with written submissions concerning the intended changes by the political party shall, within seven (7) days from the date of this publication, make their written submissions to the Registrar of Political Parties,” Nderitu said.