The National Economic Development Party (NEDP), led by Mike Sonko, has continued to bolster its political influence after an elected Member of County Assembly (MCA) from Meru County officially defected from the BUS Party, even as more than 20 aspiring leaders from Mandera County declared their interest in contesting on the NEDP ticket.

Maua Municipality Ward MCA Hon. Duncan Kangwana formally joined the NEDP, marking what the party described as another significant milestone in its growing national expansion ahead of the next General Election.

Welcoming the legislator, NEDP Party Leader Mike Sonko said the party had closely monitored Kangwana’s performance at the grassroots level and through his public engagements, praising his commitment to service delivery and development.

“We have closely monitored his track record and have been impressed by his dedication to improving the lives of the people of Maua. We warmly welcome Hon. Duncan Kangwana to the NEDP family and look forward to working together in serving Kenyans,” Sonko said.

The latest defection comes just hours after Sonko announced that the party had hosted a delegation of more than 20 aspiring leaders from Mandera County who are seeking to vie for various elective positions on the NEDP ticket.

The meeting, attended by Party Chairman Dr. John Nyamu, Deputy Party Leader Antony Manyara, Treasurer Hon. Nancy Muthami and senior party official Francis Wambua, focused on the challenges facing Mandera County, including healthcare, education, water access, infrastructure, security and economic opportunities.

Sonko assured the aspirants that the NEDP nomination process would be guided by fairness, transparency and democracy, emphasizing that party tickets would be awarded through a credible process.

“Our party tickets will be issued through a fair, transparent and credible process. Together, we will build a leadership that truly serves the people,” he said.

The twin developments underscore NEDP’s continued push to broaden its national footprint by attracting elected leaders while recruiting new candidates across the country, signaling the party’s growing preparations for the next electoral cycle.