Ford Kenya Firmly Rejects Calls to Merge with UDA, Vows to Remain Independent
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s Ford Kenya party has strongly rejected growing pressure from some leaders in President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) for smaller parties in the Kenya Kwanza coalition to dissolve and fully merge into UDA.
The party made its position clear in a statement, describing the calls as outrageous and a direct threat to Kenya’s multiparty democracy. Ford Kenya officials insist they will not fold or surrender their identity, choosing instead to strengthen their own structures and maintain autonomy within the broader alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ford Kenya Secretary General John Chikati led the pushback, accusing certain UDA figures of attempting to intimidate coalition partners into submission. He emphasized that the party will continue operating independently, including preparing for by-elections and rolling out a major rebranding and organisational drive across the country. The firm stance underscores Ford Kenya’s determination to preserve its historical legacy and regional influence, particularly in Western Kenya, while still remaining part of the ruling coalition.
This development exposes emerging cracks within Kenya Kwanza as different parties guard their interests in the lead-up to future polls. While some affiliates appear open to deeper integration, Ford Kenya’s resolute rejection signals that not every partner is willing to cede control to UDA. Political analysts say the move could reshape coalition negotiations in the coming months, with Wetang’ula’s party positioning itself as a strong, independent player ready to compete or form alliances on its own terms.
