In a startling political twist that’s sending whispers through Kenya’s ruling party, former Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga has formally dumped President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and thrown her weight behind the fast-rising United Opposition coalition.
The businesswoman and one-time fierce Ruto defender announced her exit from UDA, declaring open support for key anti-government figures including Rigathi Gachagua of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i linked to Jubilee, and Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka. Sources close to Omanga say the move stems from disillusionment with UDA’s direction, though she has not detailed specific grievances publicly.
“I’m aligning with the United Opposition to push for real change,” Omanga signaled in recent statements, fueling speculation of a broader exodus from the ruling party as 2027 looms.
The defection is particularly stinging for UDA: Omanga was a high-profile campaigner in 2022 and known for her lively dance performances at party rallies – from Kasarani to Eldoret – that often lit up social media. Now, the same “dancing queen” of UDA events is grooving to a new opposition rhythm, with viral clips resurfacing of her moves alongside Gachagua at recent gatherings.
Omanga has set her sights firmly on the **Nairobi Woman Representative** seat in 2027, a high-stakes race she lost narrowly last time. Analysts say her entry could split votes in the capital and boost the opposition’s urban appeal.
“This is transfer season in Kenyan politics – and Omanga just made a game-changing move,” one political observer noted. With defections mounting and coalitions forming, the battle for 2027 is heating up faster than anyone expected.
As Ruto’s camp reels from the setback, all eyes are on whether more high-profile UDA figures will follow Omanga’s lead. One thing is clear: the beat has changed, and Omanga is leading the dance.
