The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has announced its intention to formally remove former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as the party’s deputy leader and appoint his successor, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. The notification, published on Thursday, was signed by UDA national chairperson Cecily Mbarire and Secretary General Hassan Omar.
The move follows UDA’s recent merger with the Amani National Congress (ANC), which brought ANC leaders into UDA’s leadership structure. The decision to remove Gachagua, first reached by the UDA National Executive Committee (NEC) on November 11, is awaiting ratification by the Registrar of Political Parties. According to the UDA constitution, the deputy party leader must also hold the position of deputy president.
Gachagua’s impeachment in October last year over insubordination and other allegations triggered his ouster as UDA’s second-in-command. Despite his court challenge against the impeachment, UDA officials have hinted at the possibility of expelling him if the court upholds his removal.
Meanwhile, Gachagua is reportedly planning to launch a new political party in early February as he seeks to consolidate his influence, particularly in the Mount Kenya region. His allies, including former Laikipia Woman Representative Catherine Waruguru and Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, have confirmed that plans for the new party are nearly complete. Gachagua is expected to make a formal announcement in the coming weeks.
In the wake of Gachagua’s removal, Kindiki has taken over as UDA’s deputy leader, pledging to promote unity and support President William Ruto’s leadership. UDA has also integrated former ANC members into its leadership and begun rebranding efforts ahead of the 2027 general election. The merger includes the incorporation of ANC’s identity into UDA’s logo and branding, with key ANC leaders such as Issa Timamy and Omboko Milemba taking up leadership roles within the party.
