Lamu Woman Rep Muthoni Marubu Cuts Ties with UDA

Lamu Woman Representative Muthoni Marubu announced her decision to withdraw plans to join the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). Marubu, who was elected as an independent candidate in 2022, officially cut ties with the party on Tuesday. She cited political sabotage and ethnic exclusion by Lamu Governor and UDA Deputy Party Leader Issa Timamy.

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Grassroots Disagreements Trigger Separation

Confrontation Over Local Party Elections

The sudden exit follows structural disputes regarding UDA’s grassroots elections in Lamu County. Marubu accused Governor Timamy of attempting to alter election outcomes after initial registrations did not favor his local political interests. The lawmaker asserted she spent three months conducting 42 grassroots meetings to build party numbers. She noted that the ruling party failed to secure any elective seats in the region during the 2022 general elections.

Allegations of Ethnic Bias

Marubu stated that Governor Timamy specifically targeted her political stronghold of Lamu West while ignoring other parts of the county. In a letter addressed to the governor, Marubu criticized the administration’s localized strategy. She noted she previously supported Timamy during an impeachment attempt a decade ago but would no longer tolerate political interference.

“A decade later, you have chosen to spend your final political capital trying to destroy my career. I will not allow your ethnic prejudice to become the ceiling of mine,” Marubu stated in her formal resignation letter.

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Broader Implications for the 2027 Elections

Shifting Alliances in the Coastal Region

The rift highlights growing internal friction within President William Ruto’s party as regional leaders position themselves for the 2027 General Election. Marubu, who was widely expected to vie for the Lamu Senate seat on a UDA ticket, confirmed that neither she nor her core supporters will participate in future party activities. Local political analysts indicate that her departure creates an organizational vacuum for UDA in Lamu County.

Despite the exit, Marubu affirmed her commitment to continue working with the national government on development projects. She stated her independent machinery would continue serving local residents across all ethnic and religious spectrums. Governor Timamy’s office has not yet issued an official response to the allegations.