Runyenjes MP Eric Muchangi Karemba has signalled a possible break with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), hinting that he will seek a third parliamentary term on a different party ticket.
Speaking in Gikuuri, Runyenjes, Embu County, Karemba said he would return the wheelbarrow, a symbol closely associated with UDA, to its owner, in remarks suggesting that his political relationship with the ruling party may be nearing an end.
The legislator said he would announce his next political move soon, leaving his supporters waiting to learn which party he intends to use to defend his seat in the 2027 General Election.
Karemba’s remarks come as UDA faces defections and growing political realignments, particularly in the Mount Kenya region, where several leaders who supported Ruto’s presidential bid in 2022 have since reconsidered their political alliances.
Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha have joined Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), while Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has announced his departure from UDA and moved to the People’s Party of Kenya.
Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe and former Gender Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa have also announced their exits from the ruling party. Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, meanwhile, has ruled out defending her seat on a UDA ticket.
The departures underscore the fluid political environment ahead of the 2027 elections, with leaders exploring alternative parties and alliances as they prepare for nominations and campaigns.
Ruto’s political relationship with Mount Kenya leaders has been a central feature of the region’s changing political landscape since his fallout with Gachagua, who has emerged as a key figure in the push to consolidate support outside UDA.
Karemba’s next move will provide a clearer indication of where he intends to position himself in the evolving contest.
For now, the Runyenjes MP has not publicly named his preferred party, leaving his anticipated announcement as the next key development in his bid for a third term.
