UDA postpones grassroots elections following death of Emurua Dikirr MP

The United Democratic Alliance has postponed its repeat grassroots elections in respect for the late Emurua Dikirr Member of Parliament Johana Ng’eno, who died in a helicopter crash.

The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has postponed the third phase of its repeat grassroots elections, originally scheduled for Saturday 7 March, following the tragic death of Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno.

The party’s National Elections Board made the announcement on Monday 2 March. It cited solidarity with the national mourning period and respect for the legislator.

“In respect and solidarity with the mourning period, we have adjusted our timelines,” the notice stated.

UDA National Elections Board Chairman Anthony Mwaura said the decision allows members and leaders to grieve without the distraction of political contests. He stressed the need to demonstrate unity and respect during this difficult time.

The repeat Phase III polls will now take place on Saturday 14 March. Affected counties include Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Samburu, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Baringo, Laikipia, Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet and Vihiga.

The party also rescheduled the repeat Phase II grassroots elections to Thursday 9 April. These cover 25 counties, including Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, Taita Taveta, Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, Turkana, Kajiado, Bungoma, Siaya, Kisumu, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira and Kakamega.

Ng’eno, aged 54 and serving his third term since first elected in 2013, perished on Saturday 28 February alongside five others in a helicopter crash in Chepkiep forest, Mosop, Nandi County.

The incident happened around 4.45pm after the aircraft made an emergency landing due to bad weather and attempted takeoff again before bursting into flames.

Victims included pilot Captain George Were, Kenya Forest Service officer Amos Kipngetich Rotich, cameraman Nick Koskei, and two others whose identities were pending confirmation as investigations continued.

A passionate advocate for land rights, community development and housing policy, Ng’eno chaired the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works. He played a key role in passing the Affordable Housing Act 2024.

Parliament and national leaders have paid tribute to his service and leadership, describing the loss as a profound sorrow for the country and offering condolences to the affected families.

This postponement highlights how tragedy can pause political activities to allow space for collective grieving.