In a stunning setback for President William Ruto’s political strategy, the High Court has ruled the merger between the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Amani National Congress (ANC) unconstitutional, effectively restoring ANC as an independent registered party.
Justice Bahati Mwamuye delivered the landmark ruling on Thursday, declaring that ANC’s dissolution failed to meet the strict legal requirements under Kenya’s Political Parties Act.
“ANC remains a duly registered political party in Kenya,” the judge stated, adding: “A declaration is hereby issued that the Amani National Congress retains its full registration status and legal personality.”
The court ordered the Registrar of Political Parties to immediately update official records to reflect ANC’s continued existence and formally confirm its status. Additionally, Justice Mwamuye barred any transfer, disposal, or interference with ANC’s assets, effective February 6, 2025.
The decision upends UDA’s high-profile merger announced just over a year ago on January 17, 2025, at State House Nairobi. UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire had declared the parties unified under the UDA banner, with plans for rebranding that incorporated ANC’s symbols, logo, and identity.
Key appointments followed the announcement: Lamu Governor Issa Timamy as Deputy Party Leader, Kelvin Lunani as Vice Chairman, and Emuhaya MP Omboko Milemba as Deputy Secretary General.
Mbarire had touted the merger as a strengthening move, stating: “The United Democratic Alliance and Amani National Congress have today merged as one, to be known as the United Democratic Alliance—which will also change its name and branding.”
The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) later ratified ANC’s dissolution in a March 7, 2025, gazette notice, citing a Special National Delegates Congress resolution on February 7, 2025.
Thursday’s ruling invalidates that process, delivering a major blow to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s ANC and President Ruto’s efforts to consolidate Kenya Kwanza coalition partners ahead of future elections.
Political analysts say the verdict could reshape alliances in Kenyan politics, forcing UDA to rethink its expansion strategy while bolstering opposition voices critical of rapid coalition mergers.
The case highlights growing judicial scrutiny of political party dissolutions and mergers in Kenya, raising questions about compliance with constitutional thresholds.
