The UDA Party Grassroots elections encountered voter identification issues. The party witnessed the commencement of its grassroots elections across several counties, albeit overshadowed by confusion stemming from voter identification complications in certain regions and delayed starts in others.
In the capital, Nairobi, a notable portion of voters encountered obstacles as only a fraction received identification through the biometric devices. Governor Johnson Sakaja and Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie were among those denied the opportunity to cast their votes.
Governor Sakaja, in particular, faced an unforeseen hurdle when his name failed to appear in the party’s registry, adding to the concerns surrounding the efficiency of the electoral process.
Reports also emerged of delays in several locations attributed to the theft of vital voting equipment during the UDA party grassroot elections.
“Nilienda kupiga kura nikaona kuna hitilafu kidogo ya kupiga kura kwa sababu ya jina,” Governor Sakaja stated.
In West Pokot County, the exercise encountered significant delays, with voting starting as late as 4 pm. Voters across 512 polling stations were compelled to wait due to stolen election materials, further disrupting the electoral process.
Governor Simon Kachapin pleaded with the county leaders, urging them not to exploit the elections as a means to sow division among locals. He called for unity among the leaders and locals and emphasized the importance of cohesion within the community.
“Siasa ya mapema itagawanyisha sisi na tutakosa mwelekeo,” stated Kachapin.
In Narok, the exercise was marred by the seizure of election materials in a forest area near Kutete Primary School in Narok East. The incident sparked widespread concerns regarding the transparency and integrity of the entire process.
The leaders called for the investigation and arrest of those implicated in the theft of electoral materials.
“Venye tulikuwa tunadustribute hizi materials tukaanza kukosa materials tukafuata gari yenye ilikuwa imechukua kutoka tallying centre, tukakuja kupata kwa msitu,” Francis Topia, an election official in Narok, said.
In Homa Bay County, the election experienced a delayed start, leading UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala to address concerns and urge patience among participants.
Cleophas Malala acknoledged the challenges encountered with the use of digital platforms for the first time. He also announced measures such as extending voting hours and establishing a dedicated call center to address complaints promptly.
“We are committed to prioritizing the interests of our members. To address any challenges, we have initiated a call center at the headquarters,” stated UDA Elections Board Chairman Antony Mwaura.
Despite the setbacks in Homa Bay, the UDA party remains steadfast in adhering to its election schedule, with plans to continue the electoral process in other regions as planned.
