President William Ruto and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) have intensified efforts to solidify their presence in Kenya’s Coast region ahead of the 2027 general elections. Since last Friday, Ruto has been actively engaging residents, launching and inspecting development projects, and urging grassroots leaders to bolster the party’s membership. The move is seen as a strategic attempt to strengthen UDA’s support in a region that has historically leaned towards the opposition.
UDA aims to use its upcoming grassroots elections on April 12 to entrench itself in the Coast. Party members and aspirants for various leadership positions have been tasked with recruiting at least 200,000 new members in key counties like Mombasa and Kilifi, while the other four coastal counties are expected to register at least 100,000 new members collectively.
This aggressive membership drive, coupled with an emerging collaboration with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) – the dominant party in the region – is poised to significantly boost Ruto’s re-election prospects. The Coast has become a crucial vote bloc, and the President’s extended stay in the region underscores its importance in UDA’s long-term strategy.
During the burial of Senate Speaker Amason Kingi’s father in Magarini last Friday, Ruto expressed concern over the slow pace of development in the region. He vowed to spearhead efforts to accelerate economic growth and infrastructure improvements.
“I am here from today until next Saturday. I will be here at the Coast. And I am here for development,” Ruto stated. “I am here to push until we make sure the Coast is developed like other regions in Kenya.”
Throughout his visit, the President launched several projects, including electrification, road construction, water supply initiatives, and affordable housing programs. These projects are expected to improve the livelihoods of Coast residents, demonstrating the government’s commitment to uplifting the historically marginalized region.
UDA’s focus on grassroots engagement was further emphasized by Mary Muting’a, a member of the party’s National Elections Board in charge of the Coast. She reiterated Ruto’s desire to work with leaders at all levels to foster inclusivity.
“We are doing these elections because the President wants to work with everybody from the grassroots,” Muting’a said, urging residents to join UDA.
The party’s commitment to the Coast is further highlighted by the recent elevation of Lamu Governor Issa Timamy to UDA deputy party leader, following the dissolution of the Amani National Congress (ANC). Alongside Secretary General Hassan Omar, another coastal leader, Timamy’s position strengthens the region’s representation in the ruling party.
With these strategic moves, UDA is setting the stage for an intense political battle in the Coast region as the 2027 elections approach.
