Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina has explained her choice to remain with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) while openly supporting the Democratic Change Party (DCP).
She pointed out that differing ideologies and the real conditions of Kenyan politics have influenced her decision to stay with UDA.
Njeri remarked that political parties in Kenya often serve more as means to gain electoral success rather than as organizations based on solid ideological foundations.
“We often see political parties as tools for elections rather than as entities that embody strong ideologies. If UDA had been rooted in clear principles and adhered to them, I wouldn’t feel the need to shift my allegiance to a party that resonates more with my beliefs,” she stated.
She emphasized that if political parties adhered strictly to their ideological beliefs, the law would necessitate her resignation and a new bid under a different party.
Nonetheless, she pointed out the fluid nature of Kenyan politics, where party switching is commonplace among politicians.
“It’s a tradition in Kenya to switch allegiances. This tendency is woven into our politics, and it’s a matter of freedom of expression, with the constitution taking precedence over other laws. I’ve always been clear about my principles. UDA had a narrative that initially attracted me, but it seems to have strayed from that path. Why should I remain with a party that doesn’t stick to its own values?” she explained.
Njeri highlighted that her support for DCP is based on her principles, clarifying that her loyalty is contingent on maintaining ideological consistency.
She reflected on how her original decision to join UDA was motivated by the party’s agenda, which she now feels it has abandoned.
The legislator also acknowledged that the law permits her to run as an independent candidate, a possibility she is open to considering in the future.
“I’m backing DCP on a matter of principle. I’ve made it clear that if DCP were to deviate from its principles after forming a government, I couldn’t stay associated with them. I also have the option to run as an independent candidate, which is allowed by law, should I choose to,” she mentioned.
Responding to calls for her resignation, Maina rejected the notion, saying that triggering a by-election would be a waste of resources.
“Why would I burden the Kenyan taxpayer with over Sh100 million for a by-election in Kirinyaga when we have pressing needs like school funding? That’s not how politics should operate,” she stated.
She stressed that her choice is guided by the public’s interest, especially given the current economic challenges many Kenyans are facing.
“As a leader who understands the struggles of the Kenyan people, it wouldn’t be wise to resign for political reasons,” she concluded.