Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei made a bold proclamation that the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party would be in power for the next 100 years. The prediction mirrors a similar statement made by former Kanu-era minister Joseph Kamotho, who once claimed that Kanu would remain in power for a century. While many dismissed Kamotho’s prophecy as a delusional prediction during the early 1990s when the country was clamoring for multi-party democracy, the political landscape since has presented interesting parallels that could vindicate Cherargei’s prediction, or at least make it worth a closer look.
The UDA came to power following the August 8, 2022, General Election with William Ruto, a long-time political figure, securing the presidency. Since then, the party has shown remarkable cohesion, with recent mergers, including that with the Amani National Congress (ANC), strengthening its political influence. Senator Cherargei’s proclamation on social media that “Chama tawala iko imara kama simba na wheelbarrow, and it shall rule for the next 100 years” may sound far-fetched to many, but there are historical precedents that suggest it might not be entirely unrealistic.
Kanu, the party once dominated by President Daniel Moi, was in power for 24 years until Moi’s departure in 2002. Despite Kanu’s waning influence at the time, its loyalists continued to maintain significant sway within Kenyan politics. From Moi’s pick of Uhuru Kenyatta as his successor, to the succession of Mwai Kibaki (once a Kanu Vice President), and then to Uhuru’s 10-year tenure, Kenya has witnessed a political continuity shaped by Kanu’s influence even after its official demise. Uhuru’s successor, William Ruto, a former Kanu Youth Winger, now leads the UDA, completing a full circle of political legacies.
Looking ahead, it is clear that Ruto, as the UDA party leader, is expected to defend his presidency in the upcoming 2027 elections, further consolidating his hold on power. If he succeeds, the UDA might continue to strengthen its political dominance for years to come. While some critics are quick to dismiss Cherargei’s forecast as delusional, the longevity of Kenya’s political dynasties and the persistence of party legacies suggest that the UDA’s grip on power could last longer than many expect.
In conclusion, whether UDA will truly rule for 100 years remains to be seen, but historical trends and the political endurance of parties like Kanu provide a compelling argument that Cherargei’s bold prediction could hold some weight, at least for the foreseeable future.
