Justice Bahati Mwamuye ruled that the dissolution of ANC and its merger with UDA did not follow constitutional procedures. The court also nullified the gazette notice that had declared the merger official. ANC’s status will now be updated in the official register immediately.
The court ordered that all party assets transferred to UDA be returned to ANC offices. It also prohibited any handling, disposal, or tampering of the party’s property until full compliance with the judgment is achieved.
ANC had voluntarily dissolved and joined UDA in January 2025, with President William Ruto as party leader and ANC’s Issa Timamy taking a deputy position. The merger was formalized through a gazette notice in March 2025, but some ANC members opposed the process, arguing it violated Article 91 of the Constitution.
The petition challenging the merger cited procedural errors and irregularities in transferring assets to UDA. The High Court ruling now restores the party’s structures and leadership, giving former ANC officials the authority to manage the party fully.
The decision comes at a sensitive time as UDA prepares for a National Governing Council meeting and pre-coalition talks with other parties, including ODM. The ruling may affect ongoing political arrangements and create uncertainty within the ruling party.
ANC leaders and supporters welcomed the decision, emphasizing that the party will continue its operations and prepare independently for the 2027 elections. The court’s ruling reinforces the importance of following constitutional procedures in party mergers.
The outcome marks a significant moment in Kenya’s political landscape and highlights the role of the judiciary in protecting party autonomy and members’ rights. ANC is now set to reclaim its identity and continue as a legal political entity.
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