Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has been officially named the new party leader of the Umoja na Maendeleo Party (UMP), signaling her re-entry into active party politics. This significant announcement comes just a few months after her departure from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) issued a gazette notice confirming Mwangaza's assumption of the leadership role, taking over from Charles Wambora Mugambi.

Following the gazette notice, the Registrar of Political Parties, Anne Nderitu, has invited any individuals or entities with objections to these leadership changes within UMP to submit their written submissions. Such objections must be presented to the Registrar within seven days from the date of the publication of the notice. This procedural step allows for public scrutiny and ensures transparency in political party transitions.

Mwangaza's new appointment with UMP follows her declaration three months prior that she was leaving the United Democratic Alliance. She had initially joined UDA after successfully being elected governor of Meru in 2022, running on an independent ticket. Her decision to part ways with UDA was prompted by her accusation that the party failed to provide adequate support during her impeachment proceedings, which ultimately led to her removal from office.

In addition to Kawira Mwangaza's new role, UMP has also announced a comprehensive series of other leadership changes. Victor Koome Mwangaza has been appointed as the new Deputy Party Leader, replacing Haron Shamala Ipalasa. The National Chairperson position has transitioned from Samuel John Njagi to Miriam Karwira Guantai. Monicah Njeri Kagumo is now the party Treasurer, succeeding Catherine Wambeti, while Bernard Lenana Keen has taken over as Organising Secretary from Christopher Kilonzo. Furthermore, the party’s Secretary for Women’s Affairs role has been assigned to Alice Waithera Kamau, who replaces Jasmily Katana Ngoka. Concurrently with these personnel changes, UMP has also relocated its official headquarters from Embu town to the Kamuketha Building, now situated in Meru.