Former Gender, Culture and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa has resigned from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), bringing to an end her association with President William Ruto’s party as political realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election gather momentum.

Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, Jumwa announced that her decision followed what she described as a long period of reflection, prayer and consultations with her supporters.

“After deep reflection, heartfelt prayer, and countless consultations with the people I serve, I have made one of the most difficult decisions of my political life. From today, Aisha Jumwa Karisa Katana is no longer a member of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA),” she said.

The former Cabinet Secretary, who served in President Ruto’s administration before being dropped during the Cabinet reorganisation, said she would reveal her next political move after completing further consultations with her supporters.

Jumwa also claimed she had increasingly felt sidelined despite being among President Ruto’s loyal allies in the Coast region. She alleged that she was once denied access to State House during a meeting involving Coast leaders and that her attempts to reach the President had gone unanswered.

She further claimed that the President no longer acknowledged her during visits to Kilifi, saying the incidents convinced her that it was time to chart a new political path.

Her resignation is expected to reshape the political landscape at the Coast, where she has remained one of the region’s most influential politicians.

Jumwa previously served as Malindi MP before joining UDA ahead of the 2022 General Election and later served as Gender Cabinet Secretary.

While she did not immediately announce the political party she intends to join, Jumwa said she would make her next move public once consultations are complete.

Her exit adds to a growing wave of political defections and party realignments as leaders position themselves for the 2027 General Election.