The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is generating millions of shillings by charging aspirants fees to attend a State House meeting with President William Ruto on February 4, 2026. This "UDA Aspirants Forum" aims to build a strong grassroots network for Ruto's re-election in 2027 and gauge party influence.

• As of Tuesday, the UDA had collected close to Sh17 million from over 7,000 applicants.
• National Elections Board Chairman Anthony Mwaura stated fees range from Sh2,000 for MCA aspirants to Sh100,000 for those challenging the President for the party ticket.
• President Ruto emphasized this initiative encourages early commitment to the party, warning against those who join last minute seeking tickets.

President William Ruto's recent meeting has exposed significant internal tensions within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) regarding potential sacrifices of current members to accommodate new coalition partners, particularly the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), ahead of the 2027 elections.

• The ODM is reportedly demanding the running mate position, currently held by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, as their "irreducible minimum" in pre-election pact talks.
• UDA National Chairperson Cecily Mbarire publicly advocated for DP Kindiki's retention, praising his performance.
• Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana expressed fears that "children of the house" (existing UDA members) might be overlooked in negotiations.
• President Ruto assured UDA members that negotiations would result in a "win-win" scenario, but notably sidestepped the issue of the deputy president position, hinting at its potential for negotiation.

Repeated attacks on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, including an incident at a Nyeri County church, are being interpreted as high-stakes power struggles ahead of the 2027 General Elections. These incidents, involving suspected politically orchestrated groups of rogue police officers and civilian goons, raise serious questions about the use of state power in Kenyan politics.

• Gachagua, impeached in October 2024, has re-emerged as a formidable political force with his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), winning by-elections in Kariobangi, Kisa East, and Narok Town.
• Long-serving administrator Joseph Kaguthi cited former President Daniel Arap Moi’s observation that persistent illegalities often have powerful backing.
• The attacks primarily target Gachagua’s stronghold of Mt Kenya, described by political commentator Harman Manyora as an "epicenter" where his presence triggers a "popularity war."
• Kikuyu Council of Elders Chairman Wachira Kiago condemned the violence, particularly against women, children, and the elderly, warning that it is being imported into the region.
• Political scientist Festus Wangwe argues that President William Ruto, as chair of the National Security Council, bears ultimate responsibility for the ongoing violence.