Runyenjes Member of Parliament Eric Muchangi Karemba has hinted at plans to abandon the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), signalling a possible political realignment as leaders reposition themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Karemba, who is seeking a third term in Parliament, says he will soon announce the political party under which he intends to defend his seat, raising questions about his continued association with President William Ruto’s political camp.
Speaking in Gikuuri, Runyenjes, Embu County, the legislator declared that he would return the wheelbarrow, UDA’s signature political symbol, to its owner in remarks that appeared to signal his growing distance from the ruling party.
The statement marks a potentially significant shift for a legislator elected under the UDA banner in 2022, when Ruto secured substantial support across central Kenya.
Karemba’s latest remarks come amid a broader shake-up within UDA, with several politicians who previously backed Ruto now distancing themselves from the party or openly seeking alternative political platforms.
Among those who have left UDA are Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, who joined former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), and Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha, who also moved to DCP.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has announced his departure from UDA and aligned himself with the People’s Party of Kenya, while Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe has also quit the ruling party.
Former Gender Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa has similarly announced her exit.
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has declared that she will not seek re-election on a UDA ticket, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the party’s electoral support in the Mount Kenya region.
The departures come against the backdrop of shifting political loyalties in a region that played a crucial role in Ruto’s 2022 presidential victory.
For Karemba, the immediate question is whether he will formally leave UDA and which political formation he will choose as he pursues another term in Parliament.
His anticipated announcement is expected to clarify his political direction as the contest for party tickets and alliances gathers momentum ahead of the next General Election.
