Busia County – The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) leadership in Busia County has fired a strong warning to party members who have been cozying up to candidates from rival political parties, saying such behavior will not be tolerated as the country inches closer to the next General Election.
Speaking during a party meeting held over the weekend, the county officials made it crystal clear that UDA expects nothing short of total loyalty from its members despite the current political arrangement where the party is working together with other outfits like the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in government.
Party Chairperson Maurice Chetabme, Secretary Stephen Buluma, and Treasurer Fred Obuche took turns to address the members, making it known that the ongoing broad-based government does not mean UDA has abandoned its identity or its agenda. They insisted that when campaigns officially kick off, UDA will go all out to sell its own candidates and no one else.
“We are in government with other parties, yes, but that does not mean we will fold our party and start supporting their people during elections. UDA is here to stay and we will field our own candidates from the MCA level all the way to the presidency. Anyone who thinks they can eat from both sides will have themselves to blame,” Chetabme told the gathering.
The leaders expressed concern that some members have been openly campaigning for aspirants from other political parties, an act they described as blatant indiscipline that goes against the party’s constitution. They warned that such members risk facing disciplinary action if they do not change their ways and fall in line.
“Let no one be confused. The party has rules and regulations, and anyone who violates them will face the consequences. We have seen some of our people attending rallies of other parties and even declaring support for their candidates. That is unacceptable and we are watching,” said Secretary Stephen Buluma.
Treasurer Fred Obuche on his part called on members to remain united and focused on the bigger picture, which is building and strengthening UDA’s support base not only in Busia but across the country. He emphasized that the party is growing in the region and there is no room for divided loyalty.
The county officials also revealed that they are encouraged by the growing number of aspirants who are picking UDA nomination forms to contest for various seats. According to them, this is a clear sign that the party is gaining ground in Busia and that victory is within reach.
“More and more people are coming on board. They want to fly the UDA flag because they know it is a winning ticket. We are mobilizing our grassroots structures and we are confident that we will clinch the majority of seats in this county,” Obuche added.
The leaders assured party supporters that UDA is preparing vigorously for the next elections and will not be distracted by anyone who is not fully committed to the party’s course. They said the party is keen on fielding strong candidates who resonate with the people and can deliver on the development agenda.
With political temperatures beginning to rise across the country, the Busia UDA leadership has made it clear that the party will not entertain any form of sabotage from within, and those found on the wrong side will have no one to blame but themselves.
