In a significant political realignment, former Samburu Woman Representative Maison Leshoomo has officially crossed over to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, marking one of the most notable defections from the Jubilee Party in recent months.
Leshoomo was formally received by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki during a political event held in Samburu County on Saturday, August 1, 2026, alongside ten other politicians who were previously allied with the opposition.
Speaking at the well-attended function in Maralal, Leshoomo made it clear that her decision to leave the Jubilee Party was driven by former President Uhuru Kenyatta's recent exit from the political outfit that he once led.
She explained that her loyalty to Jubilee had always been tied to the former Head of State, and with his departure from the party, she saw no compelling reason to remain.
"I was in Jubilee because of Uhuru Kenyatta. When Uhuru gave out Jubilee, I decided to leave. Let us go back to the government," Leshoomo declared to the cheering crowd.
Her defection comes just two days after she officially resigned from the Jubilee Party and stepped down from her position as Chairperson of the Jubilee Party National Women's League.
In a resignation letter dated July 27, 2026, Leshoomo stated that her decision was voluntary and made in accordance with the Constitution and the Political Parties Act.
She further emphasised that the resignation was made without any coercion or undue influence and requested the party to acknowledge receipt of her resignation as required by law.
The former Samburu Woman Representative was not alone in making the political leap. Other Jubilee politicians who crossed over to UDA include former Samburu North MP Alois Lentoimanga, Samburu Senate aspirant Lkitonga Lengolos, Suguta Ward MCA James Leleruk, Janet Lavasanti, and former Samburu County Assembly Deputy Speaker Adamson Lanyasunya.
Deputy President Kindiki, who is also a key figure in the Kenya Kwanza administration, welcomed the defectors into the party, saying their decision reflected the growing support for President William Ruto's administration across different regions.
"Let us welcome Leshoomo to UDA and into Ruto's government. Let us also welcome our former Governor Moses Lenokulal to UDA. I want to take this opportunity to welcome you all to UDA," Kindiki said.
The latest political developments come as UDA continues to consolidate its support base across the country, including in Samburu County, ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Leshoomo's defection adds to a growing wave of leaders crossing over to various political parties as the political landscape continues to shift with the approaching elections.
The move is seen as a major boost for the ruling party's efforts to expand its influence in the region and build momentum for the upcoming electoral contests.
0 Comments