The United Green Movement (UGM) Party participated in this year’s People Dialogue Festival, organized by the Center for Multi-Party Democracy at the University of Nairobi. This 4-day event, themed “Competition and Collaboration in Democratic Development,” brought together political parties, organizations, and students to discuss the future of democracy in Kenya.
Throughout the festival, UGM interacted with Kenyans from all walks of life, highlighting a shared thirst for an alternative political movement. A recurring question from attendees was, “Who does this party belong to?”—a reflection of the current state of Kenyan politics, where parties are often seen as vehicles for individual or ethnic interests. UGM Party is committed to changing this narrative by fostering a politics driven by ideology and national unity, not individualism and tokenism.
The conversations during the festival provided valuable insights into Kenyans’ political aspirations, with many praising UGM’s commitment to ideologically driven politics and recognizing the party as a key player in shaping Kenya’s future. There was a strong call for UGM to continue its focus on grassroots democracy, which resonates deeply with the people, and to enhance its engagement with student associations and educational institutions to advocate for political matters.
UGM’s emphasis on inclusivity and diversity, was also highlighted as essential with calls for more representation of the LGBTQ+ community in Kenyan politics. The party’s dedication to youth inclusion, particularly in politics and environmental conservation, was well received, with many urging UGM to further support youth innovation as a crucial component of Kenya’s progress.
As a Green Political Party, UGM’s role in environmental conservation, especially in combating desertification, was seen as vital. There was a collective urgency expressed to address the critical challenges facing Kenya, with green politics being viewed as the future for the nation.
Several UGM leaders, including Co-Party Leader Hon. Neto Agostinho, Co-Youth Leader Hon. Sialo Tasur, Co-Secretary General Ms. Brenda Ongalo, and Homa Bay County Coordinator Hon. Easter Elizabeth Ogweno, actively participated in various dialogues and panels during the festival.
Hon. Neto Agostinho was a key speaker in a panel discussion at the SDG Village, exploring the “Nexus between Human Rights and SDG’s Realization.” Joined by MP for Kamkunji Constituency Hon. Yusuf Hassan, Ms. Li Fung from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and civil society representatives, the panel discussed Kenya’s progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as we approach 2030. Hon. Neto during this discussion, highlighted UGM’s manifesto, emphasizing the party’s commitment to human rights, equality, fair representation, social justice, and dignity for all, especially through advocating for youth employment and social justice.
The People’s Dialogue Festival was a unique platform for the party to engage with Kenyans of all ages, alongside other political parties. UGM stood out as the Green Party that Promises Total Inclusivity, and we are excited to continue building a brighter, more inclusive future for all Kenyans.