President William Ruto took part in the ongoing United Democratic Alliance (UDA) grassroots elections on Saturday, casting his vote at Koilelel Primary School in Uasin Gishu County.
The move highlights the ruling party’s commitment to internal democracy and comes as UDA continues to elect officials at ward and constituency levels nationwide.
During his visit, the President was joined by party leaders and local officials. He briefly interacted with voters and urged members to maintain unity, fairness, and peaceful conduct throughout the exercise.
After voting, President Ruto stressed the value of strong grassroots leadership, saying, “Credible internal elections are critical to strengthening the party ahead of future political engagements and to ensuring that leaders remain accountable to members at the lowest levels.”
He highlighted that a robust leadership at the grassroots level is key to building a responsive and inclusive political movement.
UDA officials reported that the grassroots polls are being conducted across the country, with thousands of members participating to elect leaders who will form the backbone of the party’s organisational and mobilisation structure.
The exercise will eventually lead to fully constituted party organs, which will then feed into county and national leadership.
In Uasin Gishu County, considered a stronghold of the President, voter turnout was high, with many arriving early at polling stations.
Party officials described the process as largely peaceful and well-organised, noting that security agencies were on standby to maintain order.
The elections come at a time when UDA is seeking to strengthen its position as the ruling party amid shifting political alliances across the country. Analysts say the outcome will influence the party’s internal power dynamics and prepare it for upcoming national contests.
The party has assured that the elections are being conducted transparently under its constitution, with mechanisms in place to resolve any disputes. President Ruto’s presence at the polling station was viewed by supporters as a symbolic gesture to reinforce the party’s grassroots spirit and motivate participation nationwide.
