Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has estimated that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) used approximately Ksh 100 million to finance its campaigns during the recently concluded Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election. Speaking during a radio interview, Ruku dismissed claims that billions of shillings were spent or that public funds were used. He clarified that the campaign resources came directly from the party’s accounts, not the national treasury.
Even Ksh 500 million would be unrealistic. From my understanding, the figure is around Ksh 100 million, and that is party money, not government funds
CS RukuIn the days leading up to the July 16 mini-poll, UDA rolled out a vigorous campaign strategy in the constituency. The efforts included distribution of household items such as gas cylinders and mattresses, as well as infrastructure initiatives like road works, electricity connections, and borehole projects. These activities formed part of a broader push by the ruling party to secure the seat in what was seen as a politically significant contest.
Despite the high-profile campaign, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) declared Sammy Kamau Ngotho of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) as the winner. He secured 35,440 votes, comfortably defeating UDA candidate Samuel Muchina Nyaga, who garnered 5,450 votes.
Ruku urged political observers not to overinterpret the outcome, arguing that a single by-election does not define the broader political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election. He maintained that UDA remains firmly rooted in the Mt. Kenya region and is well-positioned to compete strongly in future polls.
The Ol Kalou seat attracted significant attention due to its perceived influence in shaping political dominance in the Mt. Kenya region—one of Kenya’s most crucial voting blocs. Although UDA conceded defeat, the party reiterated its commitment to strengthening its support base and preparing for the next general election.
