UDA announced September 20, 2025, as the date for party nominations ahead of by-elections, with applications open from August 14 to September 5 and set fees for aspirants.
A fresh wave of political activity swept through Kenya this morning, Thursday, August 14, 2025, as the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) set September 20, 2025, as the date for its party nominations ahead of the upcoming by-elections. The announcement, made at 10:47 AM East Africa Time through a statement from the party’s headquarters in Nairobi, marks the beginning of a structured process to select candidates for the November 27 polls. Interested aspirants are invited to register through the party’s online portal, with the application window opening today and closing on September 5 at 5:00 p.m. The party has outlined non-refundable nomination fees, setting Members of County Assembly (MCA) aspirants at Ksh50,000 for males and Ksh25,000 for women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PWD), while Members of Parliament (MP) and Senate aspirants will pay Ksh250,000 for males and Ksh125,000 for women, youth, and PWD. "This is a chance for our members to step forward and serve," a UDA official said during a brief address to reporters gathered outside the office. The development has sparked a mix of excitement and debate across the country, as aspirants and supporters weigh the costs and opportunities.
The by-elections, necessitated by resignations, deaths, and court decisions, will contest six parliamentary seats, one senatorial position, and 16 ward seats, offering UDA a platform to solidify its dominance following the 2022 general elections. The nomination process, a critical step in candidate selection, will involve online submissions to ensure transparency, with the portal accessible via the party’s website. The application period, spanning three weeks, allows ample time for preparation, though the fees have raised eyebrows among potential candidates. A shopkeeper in Kisumu, serving customers near a radio broadcasting the news, remarked, "Ksh50,000 is steep for an MCA seat; not all can afford it." The party justifies the charges as a means to filter serious contenders and fund campaign logistics.
Public response has been a blend of enthusiasm and concern. In Mombasa, a teacher preparing lessons for her students caught the announcement and said, "The lower fees for women are fair, but it’s still a barrier." The tiered pricing reflects UDA’s commitment to inclusivity, offering reduced rates for women, youth under 35, and PWD to encourage diverse representation. The online portal, requiring digital literacy, may pose challenges in rural areas, prompting the party to set up assistance desks in county offices. A youth leader in Naivasha, organizing a community meeting, added, "This could open doors if they support us with training." The nomination date of September 20 will follow vetting, with results announced by September 25.
The morning’s news drew varied reactions. In Thika, a father waiting at a clinic said, "My brother wants to run for MCA; Ksh25,000 is manageable." In Baringo, a herder tending cattle noted, "Ksh250,000 for MP is high; it favors the rich." The fee structure, non-refundable to deter frivolous entries, aligns with UDA’s financial model, which relies on member contributions. The party plans to deploy election officials to oversee the process, ensuring compliance with its constitution. A driver in Garissa, fueling his matatu, remarked, "The portal is good, but not all have internet." The timeline allows a month for campaign preparation post-nominations.
As the day progressed, the story reached remote areas. In Marsabit, a community elder listening to a radio update said, "Our people need help to apply online." In Mombasa’s markets, a vendor packing fish asked, "Will they waive fees for the poor?" The application window, closing at 5:00 p.m. on September 5, requires aspirants to submit identification, party membership proof, and payment receipts. UDA’s leadership, including Secretary General Hassan Omar, emphasized that the process will be merit-based, with vetting panels assessing qualifications. A shopkeeper in Homa Bay, preparing for the Devolution Conference, noted, "This could bring new faces if fair." The fees test aspirant commitment.
The afternoon brought a reflective mood to offices and homes. In Eldoret, a public servant preparing a report said, "This could strengthen UDA if they pick wisely." In Kisumu, a mother checking on her family added, "My son wants to run, but Ksh125,000 is a lot." The party’s online system includes a helpline for technical support, addressing connectivity issues. The nomination fees, collected via mobile money or bank transfer, will fund election materials and monitoring. A community organizer in Turkana, planning a radio talk, remarked, "We need clarity on who qualifies for lower fees." The process highlights political participation barriers.
Experts see strategic planning. In Nairobi, a political consultant discussing over tea said, "This timeline gives UDA an edge in organizing." The reduced fees for marginalized groups align with constitutional affirmative action, though enforcement remains key. A vendor in Timau, closing his stall, said, "Let’s hope it doesn’t exclude grassroots leaders." The party plans public forums to explain the process, with registration kits available at county offices. A father in Nyahururu, walking home with his family, added, "This could change our leaders if done right." The nominations mark a pivotal phase.
The evening saw continued engagement across the country. In Nakuru, a group at a market debated the news. "Can women really compete with Ksh25,000?" one trader asked, sorting vegetables. In Nairobi’s cyber cafes, a student scrolling through updates noted, "Social media is buzzing with applications." UDA intends to announce vetted candidates by September 25, allowing a six-week campaign period. A youth leader in Kitale, organizing an event, reflected, "This is a chance to shape our future." As the portal opens, the nomination process will define UDA’s by-election strategy.
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