NAIROBI, Kenya — Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga has spoken out about her dramatic political realignment, accusing President William Ruto’s administration of failing to deliver on key promises and drifting away from its founding principles.
Omanga, a once vocal supporter of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), recently joined the opposition-aligned Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Her shift marks a notable departure from the political camp she strongly backed during the 2022 general election.
According to Omanga, her decision to exit President Ruto’s camp dates back nearly three years, driven by what she describes as unfulfilled manifesto commitments and a growing disconnect between leadership and citizens’ expectations.
A shift from loyalist to critic
Omanga had been among the most visible grassroots mobilisers for UDA, earning recognition for her strong online presence and mobilisation efforts, particularly in Nairobi.
However, her recent remarks suggest a deepening disillusionment with the government’s direction — echoing a broader pattern of dissent emerging from some former allies within the ruling coalition.
Her move to DCP comes amid efforts by Gachagua to consolidate an opposition bloc ahead of the 2027 general election.
Gachagua, who served as deputy president until his impeachment in 2024, has since positioned himself as a central figure in opposition politics, seeking to rally disaffected leaders and voters under a new political platform.
Omanga’s defection underscores shifting alliances within Kenya’s political landscape as early manoeuvres for the next general election begin to take shape.
Her entry into DCP has been publicly welcomed by Gachagua, who described her as an influential grassroots leader capable of strengthening the party’s presence, particularly in Nairobi.
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The former senator is also expected to remain active in elective politics, having previously signalled interest in contesting for the Nairobi Woman Representative seat in 2027.
Omanga’s remarks reflect broader concerns among sections of the political class and the public over the implementation of campaign pledges made during the 2022 elections.
The Kenya Kwanza administration came into power on a platform centred on economic empowerment and bottom-up development.
However, critics argue that rising economic pressures and policy decisions have complicated delivery on those promises.
Her departure adds to a growing list of political figures reassessing their positions, highlighting early fractures that could shape the trajectory of Kenya’s opposition politics in the lead-up to 2027.
