Former Samburu Woman Representative Maison Leshoomo has officially joined the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), alongside 10 other politicians previously allied to Jubilee Party. The move was marked by a political event in Maralal, Samburu County, on 1 August 2026, where Deputy President Kithure Kindiki welcomed the defectors.

Reasons Behind the Defection

Leshoomo attributed her decision to leave Jubilee to former President Uhuru Kenyatta's departure from the party. She emphasized her loyalty was to Kenyatta personally rather than the Jubilee Party itself. Following his exit, she saw no reason to remain within the party.

"I was in Jubilee because of Uhuru Kenyatta. When Uhuru gave out Jubilee, I decided to leave. Let us go back to the government," Leshoomo stated during the gathering.

Other Defectors and Political Implications

Among those who crossed over to UDA at the event were former Samburu North MP Alois Lentoimanga, Samburu Senate aspirant Lkitonga Lengolos, Suguta Ward MCA James Leleruk, Janet Lavasanti, and former Samburu County Assembly Deputy Speaker Adamson Lanyasunya.

Deputy President Kindiki described the defections as evidence of rising public confidence in President William Ruto's administration and a sign of national political realignment ahead of the 2027 General Election.

"Let us welcome Leshoomo to UDA and into Ruto's government. Let us also welcome our former Governor Moses Lenolkulal to UDA. I want to take this opportunity to welcome you all to UDA," Kindiki said.

Focus on Development in Marginalized Regions

Kindiki linked the increased UDA support in regions like Samburu to the government's commitment to inclusive development. He highlighted ongoing projects in roads, electricity, markets, education, health, and enterprise support as part of the Kenya Kwanza administration's agenda.

"The transformation of Kenya entails the spread of development programmes equitably and the inclusion of all socio-economic segments of our society into a shared national vision," he added.

The recent defections from Jubilee to UDA represent a continuing trend of political shifts as the country approaches the 2027 elections.