The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is set to review its party constitution as preparations for the 2027 General Election intensify and political alliances continue to shift across the country.
The proposed changes were formally announced through a Kenya Gazette notice published on August 14 under the Political Parties Act, giving members of the public an opportunity to submit their views before the amendments are considered.
The Registrar of Political Parties issued the notice under Section 20(1)(a) of the Political Parties Act, which provides for the amendment of a political party’s constitution after the required public notification.
The notice stated: “The Registrar of Political Parties gives notice that United Democratic Alliance (UDA) intends to make changes to its party constitution.”
Those wishing to object to the proposed amendments have been given seven days from the date of publication to submit their written concerns. The deadline for submissions is August 21.
The planned constitutional review comes as UDA navigates a rapidly changing political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. The ruling party recently entered into a political arrangement with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), following discussions between the two sides on cooperation ahead of the polls.
During the Naivasha Broad-Based Partnership Group meeting on August 11, UDA and ODM agreed to appoint five representatives each to a joint team tasked with developing the framework and manifesto for their political partnership.
The proposed changes also come amid defections involving several prominent political figures. Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe and former Gender Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa are among leaders who have recently moved away from the ruling party.
Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha have also shifted their political allegiance to the Democracy for Citizens Party associated with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Under Kenya’s political parties law, constitutional amendments must first undergo internal approval processes before being submitted to the Registrar of Political Parties.
Depending on the party’s constitution, the proposals are considered by organs such as the National Delegates Convention or National Executive Council. The relevant body must then approve the changes through the prescribed voting process.
Once approved internally, the party submits the proposed amendments and supporting documents to the Registrar for review. The law also requires parties to meet specified requirements on democratic participation, documentation and gender representation.
The Registrar subsequently publishes a notice in the Kenya Gazette, allowing members of the public and party members to raise objections before the amendments are formally registered.
For further information on the proposed UDA constitutional changes, members of the public can access the relevant records at the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties at Lion Place, along Waiyaki Way, during official working hours.
