United Democratic Movement (UDM) is one of Kenya's significant political parties, currently ranked as the 5th largest and 2nd oldest in the country. It was founded in 1999 by politicians breaking ranks with the then ruling KANU.

The first interim chairman was Fred Amayo, son of former KANU strongman David Okiki Amayo. Other founding officials included Abdulrahman Bafadhil (Vice Chairman), Maurice Rubia (Secretary General), Yusuf Hassan Mbwana (Treasurer), and Charles Gimose (Organizing Secretary).

On January 15, 1999, UDM submitted registration papers to the Registrar of Societies. But on June 30, 1999, Registrar Catherine Kaswi Nyiha rejected the application, claiming it would “prejudice the peace, welfare or good order in Kenya.”

This was against the Inter-Party Parliamentary Group (IPPG) rules. UDM challenged the decision in court on July 15, 1999. The High Court ruled on May 11, 2001, ordering the Registrar to either register the party or justify the refusal.

Founding members included prominent figures like H.E. William Samoei Ruto, the late Sen. Sigei, Rev. Cheboi, and Kipruto arap Kirwa. Kirwa opposed KANU's push to have Uhuru Kenyatta succeed President Moi in 2002.

In December 2012, UDM joined a four-party coalition including National Vision Party, New Ford Kenya, and KANU — aiming for a joint presidential candidate in the 2013 elections. It later joined the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD).

In 2016, former DPP Philip Murgor was unveiled as UDM’s presidential candidate for the 2017 General Election.

Today, the party is led by H.E. (Capt.) Ali Ibrahim Roba, a two-term governor and current Senator of Mandera. He also chairs the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Budget.

UDM currently has 75 elected leaders across Kenya:

• 2 Governors
• 3 Senators
• 8 Members of Parliament
• 64 Members of County Assembly

The new leadership is focused on tackling historical marginalization and investing in underserved regions. While UDM is rooted in the Northern Region, it actively promotes national inclusivity.

Appointment of Hon. Ramadani Masudi Bungale from Kwale County (Coast Region) as Secretary General reflects UDM’s commitment to diversity and nationwide representation.

Following the post-election coalition agreement, UDM joined the Kenya Kwanza Alliance, helping secure a majority for President William Ruto’s government in Parliament and the Council of Governors.

This strategic alliance proves UDM’s pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s governance and its unwavering commitment to a unified, inclusive, and progressive nation.