The decision by Maua Municipality Ward MCA Duncan Kangwana to leave the BUS Party and join former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko’s National Economic Development Party (NEDP) is being viewed by political observers as another sign that the party is steadily gaining traction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kangwana’s defection adds to a growing list of leaders expressing interest in associating with Sonko, whose political influence has remained significant despite being out of elective office.
In welcoming the MCA, Sonko praised Kangwana’s record in grassroots leadership and development, saying NEDP is keen on recruiting leaders with a proven commitment to serving their constituents rather than those driven by personal political interests.
“We have closely followed his work at the grassroots and have been impressed by his dedication to service delivery and development. We welcome him to the NEDP family as we continue building a party that puts wananchi first,” Sonko said.
Political analysts say the latest move could encourage more elected leaders, particularly Members of County Assembly, Members of Parliament and grassroots politicians, to consider joining the party as political realignments gather momentum ahead of 2027.
The party is expected to make significant inroads in Nairobi, where Sonko continues to enjoy considerable popularity among sections of residents because of his long-standing philanthropic activities and his tenure as governor.
NEDP is also seen as positioning itself strongly in the Eastern region, where Sonko has cultivated political and social networks over the years through community empowerment initiatives and close working relationships with local leaders.
The Coast region is another area where the party is expected to attract support, with Sonko maintaining a visible presence through charitable programmes, youth empowerment initiatives and frequent engagement with residents on social and economic issues.
Supporters argue that Sonko’s hands-on leadership style and continued interaction with ordinary wananchi have enabled him to remain politically relevant even after leaving office.
Party officials believe that as the 2027 elections draw closer, more leaders will seek political formations that provide them with grassroots visibility and an alternative platform outside the country’s traditional political parties.
NEDP has consistently maintained that its focus is on economic empowerment, youth employment, social justice and accountable leadership, themes the party says resonate with many Kenyans seeking practical solutions to everyday challenges.
The admission of Kangwana is expected to strengthen the party’s presence in the Mt. Kenya East region while signalling NEDP’s intention to expand beyond its traditional support bases.
With political alignments continuing to shift across the country, observers say the coming months could see increased movement of leaders into emerging parties as they position themselves for the 2027 General Election, with Sonko’s NEDP among the parties expected to benefit from the changing political landscape.
