Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has issued a rallying cry for unity within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), warning that internal factionalism threatens to derail the party’s grassroots elections kicking off today.

Cherargei’s appeal comes amidst reports of sharp divisions between camps loyal to different power brokers within the Kenya Kwanza coalition. With over 300,000 candidates vying for positions, the risk of chaotic parallel slates is high.

The "House Divided" Risk

"We must not tear down the house we built," Cherargei told supporters in Kapsabet. "These elections are to strengthen the President's hand, not to create mini-kingdoms for local warlords."

• The Stakes: Control of the party machinery at the county level is crucial for the 2027 nomination tickets. Cherargei himself is facing a tough battle for influence in Nandi against Governor Stephen Sang’s allies.
• Strategic Discipline: The Senator urged candidates to accept the results of the digital voting system, which UDA is using to minimize tampering. "If we fight ourselves, the opposition will laugh all the way to the ballot," he warned.
• National Picture: The cohesion of UDA is vital for President Ruto’s legislative agenda. A fractured party makes it harder to whip MPs in Parliament to pass controversial bills like the Finance Act.

A Test of Maturity

Today’s exercise is a litmus test. Can UDA transition from a election-winning machine into a stable, institution-based political party? Or will it follow the path of Jubilee and implode from within? Cherargei knows the answer lies in the discipline of the rank and file.