The UDA Tower of Babel: Democracy or Consensus?

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) grassroots elections have once again thrust the ruling party into the spotlight, reviving political tensions reminiscent of Kenya’s KANU-era internal contests.

Memories of the 2022 UDA primaries remain fresh. The exercise was marred by violence, disputes, and open confrontations, leading to the political downfall of several established figures.

Former Senator Dr. Christopher Langat and nominated Senator Joyce Korir were among notable casualties, while Senator Wakili Hillary Sigei emerged as an unexpected victor, highlighting the unpredictable nature of party primaries.

As the party prepares for another round of grassroots elections scheduled for 10 January, unresolved grievances from the previous exercise appear to have resurfaced.

Competing factions are mobilising supporters, alliances are shifting, and political rhetoric has intensified, raising concerns over unity within the party.

Central to the dispute is the mode of nominating party delegates, an issue that has split the party into two camps.

One is the “pro-democracy” group led by Senator Wakili Hillary Sigei, while the “pro-consensus” camp includes Governor Hillary Barchok, former Governor Isaac Ruto, Bomet East MP Richard Yegon, and Konoin MP Brighton Yegon.

To a casual observer, the differences may appear minor. However, insiders from both camps told Bomet Newswire that the contest reflects a deeper struggle for control of the ruling party, which enjoys significant support across the county.

Sources within the pro-consensus camp expressed reservations about Senator Sigei’s perceived closeness to the party’s rank and file; a factor they fear could negatively affect their political prospects ahead of the 2027 elections.

A close associate of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Senator Sigei was part of the team of lawyers involved in drafting the UDA constitution and has on several occasions represented the party in legal matters. He is also among the more vocal UDA leaders in the Senate.

His political rivalry with Governor Hillary Barchok, who is eyeing the Senate seat, has also featured prominently in the unfolding events.

Allies of Governor Barchok claim that Senator Sigei intends to use the party elections to influence the party’s internal structure. The two leaders have had longstanding political differences that have persisted over the years.

Senator Sigei has dismissed the use of consensus in selecting party delegates, insisting that grassroots elections are necessary to uphold the party’s democratic principles.

He has maintained that aspirants for party positions should seek a mandate directly from the wananchi.

The dispute has also unsettled other political figures, including former Governor Isaac Ruto.

A seasoned grassroots mobiliser and a leading gubernatorial aspirant, Ruto finds himself navigating unfamiliar political terrain following his decision to abandon his party, Chama Cha Mashinani, and join the ruling party.