Former RIAT College President Throws Hat in the Ring for UDA Siaya County Chairperson Seat

Steven Charles (right) during a past church service. // Photo: File

Former Ramogi Institute of Technology president Steven Charles , popularly known as Otada, has declared his interest in the Siaya County United Democratic Alliance (UDA) chairperson position.

Speaking on Monday, February 17, Charles emphasized that it is time for young leaders to step up and take on elective positions.

Shortly after virtually addressing a group of Siaya youth, the grassroots mobilizer expressed confidence in his ability to challenge the status quo and lead the ruling party in Siaya county.

“After long deliberations, I have decided to run for Siaya County UDA chairperson, and I am very confident that I will win,” he stated.

The youthful politician stressed that the party needs a grassroots mobilizer with a clear vision and urged fellow youths to rally behind him. He initially declared his candidacy last year but shifted his focus to the chairmanship, citing a lack of people-centric leadership among other aspirants.

“Most of these candidates have no agenda. Some spend most of their time in Nairobi and only return on weekends. We can’t afford to entrust them with such a crucial position in the party,” he said.

He criticized Oyugi Dor, one of the leading contenders, for simultaneously vying for both the UDA county chairperson seat and the Ugunja Constituency MP position. Charles termed this move as selfish and ill-advised.

“We have many capable leaders who can run party affairs in Siaya. It is shocking that one individual wants to hold both positions. This is a selfish decision, and we cannot sit back and watch,” he remarked.

A former student of Agoro Oyombe Secondary, Charles pledged to unite all UDA members in Siaya ahead of the grassroots elections set for April. His goal is to strengthen the party and rally local youth in support of President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

Despite calls from a section of youth urging him to contest the Siaya Township Ward representative seat in 2027, Charles remains focused on party-building efforts. However, he remains open to the idea if the demand from the people grows stronger.

“For now, my priority is the party and President Ruto’s re-election. However, if the people believe I should represent them at the county assembly, I will heed their call,” he said.

Siaya County UDA grassroots elections will take place on April 11, 2025, alongside elections in Kisii, Kitui, Nyamira, Turkana, Machakos, Kajiado and Bungoma.

A press release by UDA National Elections Board Chairman Anthony Mwaura, dated February 12, 2025, confirmed that Garissa, Taita Taveta, Marsabit, Wajir, Mandera and Isiolo will hold their elections on April 12, 2025.