Led by Mombasa County Presidential Coordinator Mildred Odinga, the women called on the Head of State to channel more efforts towards reinforcing the party’s foundation, instead of over-relying on the broad-based coalition.

“We support the broad-based government, but we also need to strengthen our party,” said Ms Odinga during a press briefing in Mombasa. “Those who stood by the President and the UDA party during the campaigns should not be sidelined now that a new coalition is in place.”

The leaders expressed dissatisfaction with the distribution of government resources, particularly those targeting women’s empowerment in the county.

They alleged that individuals aligned with rival political outfits were benefiting at the expense of UDA supporters.

“When the President sends funds to empower women in Mombasa, local leaders aligned with ODM distribute them to their people,” said Ms Odinga. “This trend is discouraging loyal UDA supporters who feel left out.”

The group also criticised some UDA Mombasa leaders for poor leadership and a lack of visibility of the party’s presence.

They accused them of failing to advance the party’s agenda in the county and of not being instrumental in addressing local challenges such as unemployment.

The leaders called on the President to safeguard the 44 per cent of votes he garnered in Mombasa during the last general election by ensuring that his supporters feel represented and rewarded.

“If women don’t see value in their support, they won’t vote,” warned Odinga. “Politicians must focus on ground politics, not just pulpit politics.”

The women also appealed to the former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, to give the President space to implement his development agenda. Citing progress in areas such as affordable housing, market construction, and stadium development, the women urged political leaders to support ongoing government initiatives.

“We’ve seen development like never before,” said Odinga. “Let the President have the time and peace to implement his manifesto. He has done a lot in less than two years.”

The women further expressed concern over the recent distribution of empowerment funds during events graced by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and the broad-based allies in Jomvu and Likoni constituencies saying while some women’s groups reportedly received financial support, many others did not benefit.

“The funds were too little, and the distribution was not inclusive,” said Mariga Shee, one of the participants. “If empowerment programmes continue to ignore UDA members, it risks alienating the base that supported the President.”