“Demonstrate Loyalty First Before Issuing Ultimatums” – Eldoret Human Rights Activist Hits Out at Central Kenya UDA MPs

An Eldoret-based human rights activist has sharply criticized a section of United Democratic Alliance (UDA) legislators from Central Kenya over their recent 48-hour ultimatum demanding the removal of the party’s Secretary General.

Speaking on behalf of the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy Eldoret, activist Kipkorir Ngetich challenged the lawmakers to first publicly demonstrate their loyalty to the ruling party and President William Ruto, who is also the UDA party leader.

Ngetich accused some Members of Parliament from Central Kenya of remaining silent while the President has faced what he termed as “unwarranted political attacks” from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other critics within the party.

“The kind of unity and strength we are now witnessing in their demand for the removal of the UDA Secretary General is suspicious and hypocritical,” said Ngetich. “We have not seen these MPs openly defending the President or standing in solidarity with the party leader when he was under attack.”

According to the activist, the MPs have failed to organize political rallies, grassroots mobilization drives, or membership recruitment campaigns in support of UDA within the Mt Kenya region, raising doubts about their commitment to the party.

“Party loyalty is essential for political growth and stability because it fosters unity, voter confidence, and organizational strength needed to win elections,” he stated. “Without loyalty, a party risks internal wrangles and eventual collapse.”

Ngetich further claimed that UDA has suffered political humiliation from critics led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Senator John Methu, while the MPs now demanding the SG’s removal remained silent.

“Loyal members provide a strong foundation that allows party leadership to focus on governance and strategic growth instead of constantly managing internal power struggles,” he added.

The activist challenged the lawmakers to channel the same energy they are using against the Secretary General into supporting UDA candidates in upcoming by-elections, including in Ol Kalou.

“If indeed their souls and minds are still in UDA, let them move with the same strength and unity to campaign for UDA candidates and defend the party publicly,” he said.

Ngetich also questioned whether the MPs could openly caution Gachagua against what he termed as “demeaning remarks and constant attacks” directed at President Ruto.

He alleged that recent statements by UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar may have given disgruntled leaders an excuse to destabilize the party from within as they allegedly prepare to shift political allegiance ahead of the next General Election.

The activist further accused retired President Uhuru Kenyatta of issuing political statements aimed at undermining President Ruto’s administration, claiming that silence from some UDA leaders has emboldened anti-party sentiments.

“We appeal to the UDA leadership not to be intimidated or manipulated by leaders who may have already decided their next political destination,” Ngetich said.

He warned that the current rebellion within the party could be part of a larger strategy to divide UDA from within before defecting to new political formations.

“This is not a genuine cry from loyal party members. It appears to be a well-sponsored political scheme meant to weaken the party ahead of future political realignments,” he concluded.