Gatundu South Member of Parliament Gabriel Kagombe has publicly severed ties with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), expressing deep dissatisfaction with the party and President William Ruto’s administration for failing to deliver on key promises to his constituents.

Kagombe, elected under the UDA banner in 2022, stated during a community gathering that the people of Gatundu South are frustrated with continuous unkept commitments, saying, “I don’t think we can go into another election with UDA. I don’t think we will be able to listen to anything from Ruto anymore. He has lied to us too much, lies that we can no longer tolerate.”

He further emphasized his role as a representative of his constituents, noting that the mention of Ruto or UDA often evokes distress among residents.

Concerns Over Tea Sector and Infrastructure

Kagombe has been vocal about issues affecting tea farmers in his constituency, criticizing the government's approach to the tea industry. He opposed the proposed 0.8% levy on tea exports, arguing it lacked parliamentary approval and risked reducing farmers' incomes. Additionally, he challenged the introduction of a Ksh3.85 per kilogramme bulk tea auction levy and other local levies imposed by Kiambu County.

He also raised alarms about the government's fertilizer subsidy program, claiming that reimbursements amounting to Ksh7 billion have not been paid to farmers, impacting agricultural productivity.

Beyond agriculture, Kagombe highlighted the poor condition of the Mau Mau roads in Gatundu South, pointing out that inadequate infrastructure hampers the transport of produce and exacerbates economic hardships for farmers.

Political Realignments Ahead of 2027 Elections

While Kagombe has not yet announced which party he will join for the upcoming elections, his departure from UDA aligns with a broader trend of defections from the ruling party. Recently, several leaders, including Lamu Woman Representative Muthoni Marubu and former Gender Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa, have left UDA. Governors Irungu Kang’ata of Murang’a and Kiarie Badilisha of Nyandarua have also defected to the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).

Kagombe’s break follows his earlier warning that the arrest of Mukurwe-ini MP John Kaguchia could trigger defections to DCP, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.