Former Kisii County Governor James Omariba Ongwae has launched a new political vehicle, the United Super Alliance Party (USAP), which will battle for seats in the August 2027 General Election.

Addressing grassroot leaders from the Gusii region at Sensi Ward in Kitutu Chache North Constituency, Ongwae was unveiled as the interim Party Leader of USAP.

Ongwae said USAP has its base in Gusii but has a national outlook, revealing that the party has already opened offices in 45 counties in line with the Political Parties Act.

The party’s symbol is an open Eye and its slogan is “Tuko Macho” – We are watchful/awake.

He said USAP will field candidates in all elective posts except the presidential post.

The former ODM chief campaigner in Kisii said the party will align with like-minded political outfits to support a presidential candidate after holding its National Delegates Convention (NDC) before the end of 2026.

Ongwae said USAP’s support for any presidential candidate will be based on whether they meet its agenda anchored on three pillars: Utu na Haki (human dignity and justice), Uchumi kwa Wote (economy for all), and Uongozi na Maadili (leadership and integrity).

He said the party needs support from every individual regardless of party affiliation to move forward.

According to Ongwae, USAP will bring unity, promote accountable leadership and observe democracy in its activities. He said he will be keen to point out where things are not addressed in the right manner.

On nominations, the former county boss said democracy will be observed for every position. He noted that many people are interested in joining the party but they will undergo a democratic process.

He urged leaders to do more research for the party and identify suitable candidates who can win elective seats, vowing to move across the country to look for people who can stand with the party.

USAP was founded on the ideology of Afro-Social Democracy and its Third Liberation agenda focuses on economic emancipation, reducing taxes, fighting corruption and equitable sharing of resources.

The launch sets up a direct contest for the Gusii vote, pitting Ongwae against Jubilee Party Leader and presidential candidate Fred Matiang’i, who enjoys considerable support in the region, and his successor Governor Simba Arati who is Deputy Party Leader of ODM.

Ongwae, who served as Kisii’s first governor from 2013 to 2022, has dismissed claims he is a puppet for external forces.