Tension escalated in Marsabit on Saturday when two warring factions faced off ahead of UDA grassroots registration drive.
The exercise, which was led by UDA’s Secretary General Cleophas Malala, was to be conducted at Catholic Hall ground. Police had to resort to lobbing tear gas to quell the chaos pitting both groups. Reports indicate that both sides are vying for political dominance within the region. In recent months, President William Ruto’s party has been actively signing up new members in anticipation of the 2027 elections.
“Marsabit County shall be shedding her colour for a brand new Yellow coat. The UDA brigade, led by super SG, will lead an intensive ground activation exercise.,” Malalah said.
The Marsabit campaign was preceded by a visit to Isiolo, where a number of UDA leaders led by Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo donned the yellow outfit after leaving the former ruling party Jubilee. On May 18, 2023, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua announced that the UDA Party is developing into a powerful and long-lasting political force in Kenya that would stay in power for the next hundred years.
His utterance came after Isiolo Governor, his deputy James Lowasa, and Speaker of the Isiolo County Assembly Mohamed Roba Koto shifted allegiance from former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s party to join UDA.
