Ruto's United Democratic Alliance Party Opens Diaspora Office in the US

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party has officially launched a liaison office in the US.

The office was opened in Seattle, Washington on Saturday in a ceremony graced by Murang’a Senator Irungu Kang’ata and attended by Kenyans both physically and virtually.

"UDA party-first Kenyan party to have an international liaison office in USA Seattle Washington. Congratulations to Mr. Kiarie Prestige for the good work," Kang'ata said.

Deputy President William Ruto, who attended the event via video conferencing, pledged to support Kenyans living and working abroad if he is elected president next year.

Some of the promises he made include setting up a ministry that will exclusively deal with issues affecting Kenyans in the diaspora.

"We believe that the diaspora should also participate in the politics of our nation. There is no reason why the diaspora does not have representation in government," said Ruto.

He added: "...a clear ministry that strictly works on matters to do with the Kenyan community in diaspora. You should have an opportunity to contribute. There is no taxation with no representation."

The opening of the office is part of Ruto’s strategy to widen his networks and reach out to diaspora voters ahead of next year’s general elections.

The office is expected to coordinate party activities, including registration of diaspora members and mobilization of campaign resources in the US.

On Saturday, Ruto formally announced he will run for the presidency in 2022 on a UDA party ticket.

"Tuko rada. Tuko na chama cha mahustler, (We are ready with the hustler party.)," Ruto said while in West Pokot.