The United Democratic Movement (UDM) has issued nomination certificates to party aspirants contesting in the upcoming by-elections.
At an event held at the party headquarters in Nairobi, UDM leader and Mandera Senator, Ali Roba, presented the certificates to aspirants for four elective seats declared vacant by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
The recipients of the nomination certificates include Fredrick Odhiambo Ochiel, aspiring for the Ugunja parliamentary seat in Siaya County, which became vacant following the appointment of former MP Opiyo Wandayi as Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum; Stephen Amwayi for Kisa East Ward in Kakamega County; Ochanga Rashid Mariera for Chewani Ward in Tana River County; and John Meyan for Lake Zone Ward in Turkana County.
Speaking during the event, Ali Roba described UDM as a national party with ambitions to field candidates in all elective positions across the country.
He also affirmed the party’s alignment with the Kenya Kwanza government and its support for President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
He said, “As I issue these certificates, I must reassure our coalition partners and the people of Kenya that UDM remains a proud, loyal, and vibrant member of the Kenya Kwanza coalition. Our strength is in implementing and reinforcing the coalition. It means deeper penetration across regions, stronger grassroots mobilisation, and a broader national appeal. When UDM grows, Kenya Kwanza grows.”
Roba emphasised that the party would continue supporting its candidates beyond the issuance of certificates to ensure a strong showing in the by-elections.
“To our candidates, these certificates you receive today are not just party symbols; they represent the trust of UDM and the hope of Kenyans. To our leaders and members, let us rally behind our candidates, speak with one voice, and prove once again that UDM is a force of unity, equity, and service,” he added.
He further noted that the party aims to expand its reach beyond the North-Eastern region, where it is traditionally strong, to contest with other parties nationwide.
According to Roba, the by-elections serve as both a strategic test and preparation for the 2027 general elections.
