By Doris Moraa | July 24, 2026
Former Nairobi Governor Anne Kananu has officially resigned from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and joined the National Economic Development Party (NEDP), becoming the latest high-profile politician to switch parties ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kananu was formally welcomed into the NEDP by the party’s leadership during a ceremony attended by party officials and supporters, where she also announced her intention to contest for a parliamentary seat in Tharaka Nithi County.
The move marks a significant turning point in Kananu’s political journey, ending her association with the ruling UDA and signaling the beginning of a new chapter under a different political outfit.
Speaking after receiving her membership, Kananu said she had made the decision after careful reflection and consultations, expressing confidence that the National Economic Development Party offers a platform that aligns with her vision for leadership, inclusive development and public service.
She said her immediate focus will be engaging residents of Tharaka Nithi County as she prepares to seek a parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.
Kananu noted that she is committed to championing legislation aimed at improving economic empowerment, youth employment, education, healthcare and infrastructure development if elected to Parliament.
Her decision to shift her political base to Tharaka Nithi is expected to reshape the county’s political landscape, with analysts predicting heightened competition as more leaders begin positioning themselves for elective seats.
Kananu first rose to national prominence after serving as Nairobi Deputy Governor before assuming the office of Governor following the impeachment of former Governor Mike Sonko in December 2020. She later oversaw the affairs of the capital city until the 2022 General Election.
Since leaving office, she has largely maintained a low political profile before re-emerging with her latest announcement to join NEDP.
Political observers say her defection reflects the growing wave of political realignments currently taking shape across the country as leaders seek parties they believe will strengthen their chances in the next election.
The National Economic Development Party has in recent months intensified recruitment of new members as it seeks to expand its national presence and position itself as a competitive force ahead of the 2027 polls.
Kananu’s entry into the party is expected to boost its profile, particularly in the Mt. Kenya East region, where parties have begun laying the groundwork for the upcoming electoral contest.
Her departure from UDA also comes at a time when Kenya’s political landscape is experiencing increased movement of leaders between parties, with many citing ideological differences, changing political strategies and local electoral dynamics as reasons for their decisions.
Political analysts believe such defections are likely to continue over the coming months as parties conduct grassroots recruitment drives, strengthen county structures and identify potential candidates for various elective positions.
As preparations for the 2027 General Election gather pace, Kananu’s move to the National Economic Development Party adds another dimension to the evolving political realignments that are expected to shape campaigns across the country.
With her parliamentary ambitions now publicly declared, attention is expected to shift to Tharaka Nithi County, where the race for elective positions is gradually beginning to take shape as political parties continue to unveil their candidates and strategies for the next election.
