Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano on Saturday hailed the United Democratic Alliance grassroots elections as a vital reinforcement of Kenya’s democratic foundations and the government’s flagship Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
Speaking after casting her vote at Kimaru Primary School in Kiriita Ward, Ndaragwa Constituency, Nyandarua County, Miano described the nationwide exercise as a vivid demonstration of the country’s vibrant democratic spirit.
“By participating in these grassroots elections, we ensure each voice is fundamental in our national decision-making,” she posted on her X account. She drew a clear link between robust internal party democracy and Kenya’s development ambitions, particularly in tourism and wildlife conservation.
“As we work to position Kenya as a premier global destination, the stability and inclusivity of our internal institutions remain a critical pillar of our national progress,” Miano said. She stressed that fortifying the ruling party from the grassroots level is essential to delivering on BETA’s promises of inclusive growth and shared prosperity.
“Strengthening the political party from grassroots will definitely reaffirm our foundation for the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,” she added.
Miano congratulated participants for conducting a peaceful and well-organised process, emphasising the need to uphold democratic norms even within party affairs. “Hongera to all participants for a peaceful and organised exercise!” she declared.
Nationwide practice
The UDA grassroots polls, which began on 10 January 2026, are unfolding across 20 counties to elect polling centre representatives — 20 per centre — who will advance to ward, constituency and county levels, culminating in national officials by April. The party aims to solidify its organisational structures ahead of the 2027 general election.
President William Ruto, the UDA leader, joined the exercise in his home turf, casting his ballot at Koilel Primary School in Uasin Gishu County. He praised the overwhelming number of candidates vying for grassroots roles.
“I commend all the candidates for stepping forward in numbers far beyond expectation to offer leadership at the grassroots. Their commitment strengthens our party and advances the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which is anchored on inclusive growth and shared prosperity,” Ruto stated.
The polls have drawn significant interest, with over 310,000 candidates registered for some 237,940 positions, and an estimated three million party members eligible to vote in 12,000 centres. While turnout varied in some areas, senior figures urged strong participation to affirm support for the government.
Miano’s endorsement underscores the ruling party’s narrative that internal democracy is not merely procedural but a strategic pillar for sustaining economic reforms and political stability as Kenya eyes future challenges.
