UDA flagbearers nominated ahead of February by‑elections

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has formally nominated its candidates for the February 26, 2026, by‑elections, casting the mini‑polls as a measure of the party’s grassroots performance and capacity to deliver public services ahead of the 2027 general election.

UDA Chairperson Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire said the party’s focus is on service delivery and representation, not merely winning seats.

“Our flagbearers must work for the people from day one, not just during campaigns. This is about delivering roads, water, health services and opportunities for our youth,” Governor Mbarire said at the certification event in Nairobi’s Hustler Plaza.

The party has nominated Tubi Mohammed Tubi for the Isiolo South parliamentary seat, and MCA aspirants Elphas Kainanga Shalakha (West Kabras Ward, Malava), Peterson Njeru Njiri (Evurore Ward, Mbeere North) and Dancun Muratia Nyaga (Muminji Ward, Mbeere North).

UDA Secretary‑General Senator Hassan Omar reiterated that the party will provide full backing to its nominees and emphasised issue‑based campaigns.

“These candidates are expected to carry the Hustler agenda to their constituents. Winning is important, but delivering results that improve people’s lives is the real measure of success,” he said.

The February by‑elections were triggered by a combination of vacancies caused by a death and resignations.

In Isiolo South, the parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of former MP Mohamed Tubi, who was elected in 2022.

In Embu County, the Muminji and Evurore ward seats became vacant after MCAs Newton Kariuki (Karish) and Duncan Mbui resigned to pursue higher office.

The West Kabras Ward seat in Malava Constituency, Kakamega County, fell vacant after the former MCA, David Ndakwa, resigned to run for the Malava parliamentary seat — a contest he subsequently won.

Performance in these mini-polls could signal how parties are likely to fare in the 2027 general elections, with constituents focusing on tangible improvements in roads, water, healthcare, and youth employment.