Former Nairobi Governor Anne Kananu has officially defected from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to the National Economic Development Party (NEDP), setting the stage for a fresh political chapter as she seeks to vie for the Maara Constituency parliamentary seat in Tharaka Nithi County.

Her defection was announced by NEDP Leader Mike Sonko, who welcomed Kananu into the party, saying her entry strengthens the party’s push to expand its political footprint ahead of the 2027 General Election.

According to the party, Kananu will contest for the Mara parliamentary seat on the NEDP ticket, with the party pledging to champion an agenda focused on poverty eradication, improved infrastructure, job creation, quality education, access to clean water and restoring hope to residents of the constituency.

“Today, we proudly welcome H.E. Anne Kananu to NEDP after her official defection from UDA. Together, we are committed to fighting poverty, improving infrastructure, creating jobs, expanding access to quality education and clean water, and restoring hope to the people of Mara,” the party leader said in a statement.

Not a direct ticket…

The party, however, emphasized that Kananu’s admission into NEDP does not guarantee her a direct nomination.

In a move aimed at underscoring the party’s commitment to internal democracy, Sonko said all aspirants, regardless of their political stature, will be required to seek the support of party members through competitive nominations.

“Taking a photo with me or joining NEDP does not guarantee a direct party nomination. Every aspirant must go to the ground, earn the support of the people, and compete fairly in our party primaries. NEDP believes in free, fair, and democratic nominations,” the statement added.

Kananu served as Nairobi Governor after succeeding the late Governor Mike Sonko’s administration, and her latest political move marks her return to elective politics as the country’s political realignments gather pace ahead of the 2027 General Election.