Kawira Mwangaza joins UDA

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza (right) with UDA Secretary-General Cleophas Malala at the Party headquarters in Nairobi. 

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has officially joined President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party.

Mwangaza now says she will defend the governor seat on a UDA ticket in the 2027 General Election.

"People have been asking me for direction come 2027. I am proud to show Meru people the way…the party is UDA," she said on Wednesday, as she led her supporters at the UDA headquarters in Nairobi.

The governor who has survived two impeachment motions at the Senate, appealed to Members of the County Assembly in Meru to work hand in hand with her for the benefit of the locals, claiming that a majority are members of UDA.

"As a mother, I plead with MCAs, let's work together. To all MPs, I know most of you are in UDA, let us work together," she said.

Mwangaza was elected as the Meru governor in 2022 on an independent ticket, after ascending from the Woman Representative position and also as an independent candidate back in 2017.

Meanwhile, the UDA Party's new election board has also been sworn in. The team led by Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Board Chairperson Anthony Mwaura took the oath of office a day after the National Steering Committee unveiled their names.

Mwaura was sworn in alongside his vice, Veronica Kiberenge, and members; Mary Matinga, Lydia Munika, and Jimmy Kahindi.

The elections are slated to start on April 26, with the first phase in Isiolo, Garissa, Busia, Nairobi, Nark, and West Pokot counties, according to UDA Secretary-General Cleopas Malala.