Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has lost its stronghold in the Mount Kenya region following his ouster from office.
Speaking during an interview with a local media house on February 24, 2025, Gachagua asserted that the party’s influence in the region was largely tied to his leadership.
“UDA is now just a shell. It was ‘Riggy G’ who held the party together in the mountain. Without me, there is no UDA there,” he said.
Gachagua further claimed that his new political movement had already gained traction, with at least 139 Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) ready to exit UDA and seek re-election under his party.
“We are preparing for several by-elections. As of today, 139 MCAs are ready to resign from UDA and seek fresh mandates under our party. Once the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is reconstituted, we will push for a liberal general election,” he stated.
Earlier, during a joint media interview on February 9, 2025, Gachagua announced that he would unveil his new party in May 2025. He emphasized that his political journey was driven by the people’s call for a strong regional party, akin to Raila Odinga’s ODM.
“Our party is set; it is in the showroom, with a brand-new engine and Michelin tyres, and I am the driver. I will not steer it off course,” he remarked.
According to Gachagua, the transition from UDA to his new party would involve opening branch offices and firmly establishing the movement across the region. He also welcomed members from other communities to join the party, promising inclusivity.
“We are offering seats at the table to everyone. Some positions have already been allocated, and those who have yet to secure one should take this opportunity to come on board,” he added.
Gachagua revealed that his party would prioritize youth representation, particularly the Gen-Z demographic, to ensure a vibrant and forward-thinking political outfit.
“Young people will take center stage in decision-making. For strategic reasons, I will not reveal the party’s name today, but we will launch it in Nairobi at a venue to be announced later,” he said.
His remarks signal an imminent political realignment in the Mount Kenya region, setting the stage for a showdown with UDA ahead of the next election cycle.
