The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has extended the registration deadline for aspirants intending to participate in the upcoming Phase II grassroots elections. Initially set to close on March 21, the new deadline has been moved to March 26 at midnight.
This extension is aimed at ensuring inclusivity and allowing more aspirants to complete the registration process. Aspirants are encouraged to take advantage of the additional time to secure their participation in the elections, which are scheduled to take place on April 11 and 12, 2025.
The second phase of the grassroots elections, scheduled for April, will be conducted across 22 counties. The electoral process will commence on April 11 in several counties, including Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, Kajiado, Turkana, Kisii, Nyamira, Bungoma, Migori, Siaya, and Kisumu. The following day, April 12, will see elections taking place in Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, Taita Taveta, Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, and Tana River counties.
The decision to extend the registration period follows a commitment to fostering transparency and ensuring a broad participation base. By allowing additional time, the party seeks to accommodate all interested candidates and strengthen the democratic process within its ranks.
These elections come after a postponement of grassroots elections in 14 counties, originally set for June 28 and 29, 2024. The delay was attributed to the nationwide demonstrations against the finance bill that occurred in June and July of the same year. Due to the unrest, the electoral board deemed it necessary to reschedule the elections for a later date, urging aspirants to remain patient while awaiting further communication.
The grassroots election process plays a crucial role in the party’s internal organization, as it determines leadership at the polling center level. This structure forms the foundation for broader political engagement and representation within the party’s framework. With the revised timeline, aspirants are expected to finalize their preparations to ensure smooth participation in the upcoming elections.
Moving forward, the party remains committed to conducting free and fair elections while ensuring that all members have an equal opportunity to take part in shaping the party’s leadership at the grassroots level. The upcoming polls are anticipated to be a significant step in strengthening internal democracy and fortifying the party’s presence across various counties.
