President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has suffered a political setback after Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja announced her departure from the ruling party to join the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Karanja made the announcement on Friday, October 9, 2026, while addressing a gathering in Nakuru County, where she also declared her intention to contest the gubernatorial seat on a DCP ticket.
The senator said her decision was influenced by the concerns and demands of her supporters, who had encouraged her to seek the county’s top leadership position. She maintained that the electorate had played a central role in her political journey and that she had listened to their views before settling on her next move.
“I know very well that you people are my employers. You are my bosses. Even if I went to the Senate, my party leader knows very well who employed me. It is you people who employed me,” Karanja said.
She further signalled her departure from UDA by appearing in green attire, declaring that she would now pursue the Nakuru governor’s seat under DCP. Her announcement comes as political leaders begin positioning themselves for the 2027 elections, with party affiliations and potential contests attracting growing attention.
During the address, Karanja criticised President Ruto’s administration, accusing it of failing to meet the expectations of Kenyans who supported it in the 2022 General Election. She questioned the government’s response to the rising cost of living, citing increased milk prices as an example of the economic pressures facing ordinary households.
Karanja joined UDA in January 2022 and successfully contested the Nakuru senatorial seat under the party in the August 2022 General Election. Her decision to leave the ruling party and seek the governorship under DCP marks a significant shift in her political plans.
Her announcement follows that of Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, who declared on Thursday, October 8, that she was leaving UDA. Wamuchomba cited concerns about remarks by some leaders in the ruling party, particularly Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, which she said showed disrespect towards the Mount Kenya community.
The two announcements come amid changing political alignments ahead of the 2027 polls. Karanja’s move also introduces a new contest for the Nakuru gubernatorial seat, where she will seek voters’ support under her new party as the election approaches.