Editor's Review

Nyanza is considered as Raila's political bedroom. He has been in control for for over 20 years. Will UDA manage to invade his stronghold?

The UDA party has kicked off a drive to make it popular in the Nyanza region ahead of the 2022 general election.

The party linked to Deputy President William Ruto is keen to build a support base in Nyanza; the home turf of ODM leader Raila Odinga.

One of the key strategies the party has employed is the use of local leaders to build grass-root support for UDA.

In Kisii County, leaders allied to the DP are using the upcoming Bonchari by-election to popularize the party. The push is being led by South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro.

Kisii is seen as a swing county and was visited by the DP severally before the ban on political activities due to Covid-19 was put in place.


Kuria West MP Marwa Kitayama and Kuria East MP Mathias Robi are leading the push in Migoro County with their key strategy being registering locals to the party.

"We are preparing for a battle that requires the people and we're enlisting them to support us,'' Kitayama said.

So far, 500 people have registered and joined UDA in Migori County over the past month.

In Kisumu; the headquarters of the Nyanza region, the party has made a bold move launching an office that will be used to streamline UDA activities in the region.

In addition to launching the office, UDA unveiled John Oddenyo as its interim chair, Luko Ouko as the County Director, Claris Ogolla as Secretary and Paul Achola as the treasurer.

“It is important to note that the Luo Nation generally is going through a political transition as hustler nation politics has infiltrated the community,” Odenyo said after unveiling the office.

Reacting to the move, ODM noted that all parties have a right to pitch camp in any region and seek support from Kenyans.

"They have a right to look for support. However, their move will not affect the strength of ODM, and we will continue to dominate the region,” Kisumu ODM chair Ayiecho Olweny said.