UDA Leaders Engage in Diplomatic Visit to Uganda to Strengthen Ties with NRM
The UDA delegation from Kenya is visiting Uganda to bolster political relations with the NRM, focusing on governance strategy exchange. Their discussions include shared visions for citizen welfare and East African political federation. While praised for resilience, UDA faces internal scrutiny over term extension proposals for Kenyan leadership, yet prioritizes international diplomatic relations.
A delegation from Kenya’s ruling party, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), commenced a six-day visit to Uganda on February 4, 2024, to strengthen political ties with Uganda’s National Resistance Movement (NRM). This visit aims to share governance strategies and enhance cooperation between the two ruling parties. Upon their arrival at Entebbe Airport, Major Awich Pollar, NRM’s Director of External Affairs, welcomed the UDA leaders, expressing hope for mutual benefits from this diplomatic exchange.
During their schedule, UDA leaders will meet with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who will discuss NRM’s historical achievements and ideological foundations. Pollar emphasized the importance of collaboration within the East African Community, encouraging both parties to identify shared interests and utilize each other’s governance strengths. The NRM leadership highlighted their alignment with UDA in pursuing improved living conditions for citizens and advocating for an East African political federation.
This visit continues the collaborative dialogue initiated in October 2024, when UDA representatives praised NRM’s organizational structure and resilience. Joash Maangi, involved in prior discussions, stressed the necessity of coordinated political partnerships amidst Kenya’s uncertain political landscape. UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar also praised NRM’s leadership as a noteworthy example for African politics.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, UDA’s alignment with NRM has raised concerns domestically in Kenya. Internal debates surrounding a proposal to extend President William Ruto’s term from five to seven years have generated mixed reactions among Kenyans and other politicians. Yet, UDA’s focus on international diplomacy remains robust, as evidenced by their recent engagements with the Communist Party of China, showcasing their commitment to building global political relations.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) of Kenya, as a ruling party, seeks to enhance its political influence and relationships within the East African region. The trip to Uganda, aimed at fostering collaboration with the National Resistance Movement (NRM), reflects a strategic effort to learn from and support each other’s governance practices. Both parties share a vision of improving citizen welfare and consider a political federation in East Africa as a viable goal.
The ongoing diplomatic engagements between UDA and NRM signify an important step towards strengthening political alliances in the East African Community. While domestic political controversies in Kenya over leadership term extensions may pose challenges, these international collaborations underscore UDA’s commitment to expanding its global political network. The emphasis on shared governance strategies reflects hopes for enhanced cooperation and mutual growth.
Original Source: www.mwakilishi.com
