Mudavadi allies’ new party sparks exit rumours from Kenya Kwanza

By Suleiman Mbatiah

A recent move by allies of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi to form a new political party, the Democratic National Alliance (DNA), has sparked widespread speculation about his imminent exit from the Kenya Kwanza Alliance.

The rebranding of the Umoja Summit Party into DNA, led by Mudavadi’s former campaign manager Godffrey Kanoti and former Amani National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Barrack Muluka, has fueled debates about the veteran politician’s future within President William Ruto’s coalition, despite his firm denial of any plans to defect.

Mudavadi denies exit plans

In a statement issued today by his office, Mudavadi, who is also the Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary said, “For the record and to avoid any doubt, Dr Mudavadi remains firmly in the government under the Kenya Kwanza Alliance administration, led by H.E. Dr William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces.” He added, “I have absolutely no intention of joining another political outfit.”

DNA launch fuels speculation

The speculation intensified following the launch of DNA last week, an event attended by key opposition figures and Western Kenya politicians who criticized the ruling regime for unfulfilled promises to the region.

This comes against a backdrop of growing disquiet in Western Kenya, where unmet pre-election commitments made by Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, and Ruto have deepened local frustrations.

Unfulfilled promises stir discontent

As part of the 2022 Kenya Kwanza Alliance agreement, the duo was tasked with securing votes from the region in exchange for priority development projects like road construction and the revival of stalled sugar factories. However, nearly three years into Ruto’s presidency, progress remains sluggish, stoking political dissent and creating fertile ground for new parties like the Democratic Action Party (DAP) to gain traction.

DAP’s growing influence in Western Kenya

The DAP, led by Eugene Wamalwa, is emerging as a formidable force in Western Kenya, a region historically dominated by parties like ANC and Ford Kenya. Formed in 2021, DAP has positioned itself as a progressive alternative, appealing to younger voters and those disillusioned with the slow pace of development.

Analysts suggest its focus on grassroots mobilization and local issues, such as unemployment and economic hardship, is resonating with a population increasingly frustrated with the status quo. “This perceived betrayal has likely undermined confidence in the regime, deepening dissatisfaction among Western Kenya’s leaders and creating opportunities for alternative political movements,” said political analyst George Wanyonyi.

Mudavadi’s political legacy and role in Kenya Kwanza

Mudavadi, a towering figure in Kenyan politics for over three decades, recounted his role in leading ANC into the Kenya Kwanza Alliance ahead of the August 2022 General Election. The coalition, comprising Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Ford Kenya, and smaller parties, defeated Raila Odinga’s Azimio la Umoja coalition. In January 2025, ANC and UDA merged to strengthen the ruling alliance, a move Mudavadi described as “voluntary” and “endorsed by party members” to promote unity. He highlighted the influence of former ANC officials in the administration, noting that several hold senior roles, including the deputy party leader position.

Mudavadi, 64, has been a key player since the 1980s, serving as Vice-President under Daniel arap Moi and holding Cabinet roles in Finance and Transport. He founded ANC in 2015 and allied with Ruto in 2022 to bolster Kenya Kwanza’s foothold in Western Kenya, where he wields significant influence. However, the ANC-UDA merger drew criticism from some who accused him of compromising his party’s ideals for political gain. His office countered this narrative, stating, “Throughout his political career, H.E. Mudavadi has maintained integrity, honesty, and dignity, and has never been duplicitous.”

Reaffirming commitment amid tensions

Signed by Jacob Ng’etich, Director of Press Service in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, the statement underscored Mudavadi’s dedication to his role, “Dr Mudavadi remains committed to diligently serving the people of Kenya.”

Political analysts suggest that while his reaffirmation of loyalty may quiet speculation for now, the rumours could reflect underlying tensions within Kenya Kwanza, which has faced scrutiny over economic challenges and governance since taking power. With the 2027 election two years away, the shifting political landscape in Western Kenya, marked by DAP’s rise and dissatisfaction over unmet promises, signals a region in change.