Nelson Havi Resigns from UDA, Sparks Speculation Over 2027 Political Plans

 

By Phanice Rono 

 Prominent lawyer and former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Nelson Havi has officially resigned from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), ending his three-year association with the ruling party.

In a letter addressed to UDA Secretary-General Cleophas Malala and copied to the Registrar of Political Parties, Havi stated that his resignation took effect immediately, in accordance with Section 14 of the Political Parties Act.

“I hereby tender my resignation from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party with immediate effect,” Havi wrote, without elaborating on the reasons for his departure.

Although he did not disclose his next political move, sources close to the lawyer suggest that Havi may be realigning himself ahead of the 2027 General Election. Reports indicate that he could be considering a return to active politics under a different party — possibly the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) — amid calls from supporters in Westlands Constituency urging him to switch alliances.

Havi, who rose to national prominence as an outspoken advocate for judicial independence and good governance during his tenure as LSK president, joined UDA in 2021. In the 2022 General Election, he contested the Westlands parliamentary seat on a UDA ticket but lost to ODM’s Tim Wanyonyi.

Since the defeat, Havi has maintained a relatively low political profile, concentrating on his legal practice while occasionally commenting on national and constitutional issues.

His resignation, however, has reignited speculation about his political ambitions, especially as reports emerge that Wanyonyi may run for the Bungoma gubernatorial seat in 2027 — potentially leaving the Westlands parliamentary seat open.

Political analysts view Havi’s exit from UDA as a strategic move that could signal shifting alliances within Nairobi’s political landscape as parties begin positioning themselves for the next election cycle.

A respected figure in both the legal and political arenas, Havi remains one of the few lawyers in recent years to successfully bridge the gap between law and politics. His next step is expected to draw significant attention as Kenya’s 2027 political realignments continue to unfold.