Media Briefing on Repeat Phase II Grassroots Elections

Media Briefing on Repeat Phase II Grassroots Elections – A Story

By Stella Ranji 

The sun had barely risen over the coastal waters of Lamu when Amina adjusted her scarf and stepped out into the soft morning light.

It was Thursday, 23rd April 2026.

The UDA Party’s Repeat Phase II Grassroots Elections were finally here.

1. Introduction: A Nation at the Polling Centres

In over 9,000 polling centres scattered across 18 counties—including Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, Kisii, Bungoma, Makueni, Machakos, Kitui, Isiolo, Marsabit, Taita Taveta, Lamu, Tana River, Kilifi, Kwale, Mombasa, and Turkana—an estimated eight million voters were expected to participate.

In Kajiado County, preparations were also underway, though residents would cast their votes two days later, on Saturday, 25th April.

For many, this was more than an internal party exercise. It was a chance to shape leadership from the ground up.

2. Registration: The Surge of Aspirants

Back in a bustling centre in Kilifi, Hassan, a young entrepreneur, stood among a crowd of hopefuls. He was one of over 450,000 candidates who had registered to contest.

At each polling centre, twenty positions were up for grabs—roles representing women, youth, special interest groups, farmers, religious communities, professionals, and MSMEs/traders.

“I’m not a politician,” Hassan said, clutching his documents. “I’m a trader. But this is where decisions begin. If we don’t step forward, who will speak for us?”

Across the country, similar stories unfolded. Teachers, boda boda riders, farmers, and graduates—all stepping into leadership for the first time.

3. Reach: Voices from Every Corner

In Turkana, elders gathered under an acacia tree, discussing candidates in low, thoughtful tones. In Kisumu, youth groups energized the process with chants and debates. In Makueni and Kitui, women lined up early, determined to ensure their voices counted.

The elections were designed to be inclusive—bringing leadership closer to the people and ensuring representation across diverse groups.

For Amina in Lamu, the significance was personal. “We’ve always talked about change,” she said as she joined the queue. “Today, we choose who begins that change.”

4. Previous Grassroots Elections: Lessons and Determination

These repeat elections came after earlier phases that had faced logistical challenges and, in some areas, disputes. But rather than discourage participation, those setbacks seemed to strengthen resolve.

Electoral officials worked tirelessly to improve coordination, while communities became more vigilant and organized.

“This time, we’re ready,” said an official in Machakos. “We learned, we adjusted, and now we deliver.”

A Day of Decision

As the day unfolded, queues grew longer, conversations deeper, and the sense of civic duty stronger.

From the fishermen of the coast to the farmers of the highlands, from urban traders to pastoral communities, Kenyans showed up—not just to vote, but to shape the foundation of leadership.

And as the sun set over the vast landscape, one thing became clear:

This was not just about positions at polling centres.

It was about ownership, representation, and the quiet power of ordinary people deciding their future.

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