Nairobi, Kenya- In what’s quickly turning into a political soap opera with real consequences, President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is tightening the reins on loyalty—and two county lawmakers are the latest to feel the heat.
The party’s disciplinary arm has summoned two nominated Members of County Assembly (MCAs) for allegedly moonlighting with a rival faction tied to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Two MCAs in the Hot Seat
Nyeri’s Ann Thumbi and Nairobi’s Joy Muthoni Mwangi are the latest political figures under scrutiny for allegedly aligning themselves with the newly surfaced Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP)—a political outfit rumoured to have Gachagua’s fingerprints all over it.
In a formal summons dated June 6, UDA’s Disciplinary Committee accused the duo of “inciting members to leave the party” and publicly endorsing DCP.
Their alleged offenses? Participating in DCP rallies while dressed in the party’s branded attire, and—perhaps most damning in the digital age—posting Facebook content supportive of the rival faction.
Committee Chair Charles Njenga didn’t mince words. He cited violations of the Political Parties Act, 2011, and the UDA Constitution, specifically pointing to the MCAs’ roles in rallying public support for DCP. “Such actions amount to insubordination and breach of party discipline,” the letter reads. If found guilty, the two face suspension, expulsion, or monetary penalties.
The Evidence: Rallies, Merch, and Facebook Posts
The case against the MCAs appears to hinge on highly visible (and arguably reckless) public actions.
According to the committee, Thumbi actively participated in a DCP event on May 15, donning the party’s gear and endorsing its message to residents. A repeat performance allegedly followed on May 24, further entrenching suspicions of divided loyalty.
Muthoni, on the other hand, is accused of using her Facebook platform to signal her affiliation with DCP, allegedly urging her followers to abandon UDA. The party argues that such conduct not only violates its code of conduct but also undermines internal unity at a time when Ruto’s administration is facing increased political headwinds.
Hearing Date Set: June 20 at Hustler Plaza
The MCAs are now expected to appear before the disciplinary committee on June 20 at Hustler Plaza, Nairobi. They’ve been granted the option to appear in person or send legal representatives. But the stakes couldn’t be higher.
“Should the committee find you liable,” the letter warns, “sanctions will be forwarded to the National Executive Committee for further action.”
In UDA’s eyes, these aren’t just disloyal acts—they’re fireable offenses. And with political realignments underway ahead of Kenya’s next electoral cycle, this may be just the first of many loyalty tests to come.
