NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is today expected to unveil his new political vehicle, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), in a high-stakes move that sets the stage for a fresh power battle with President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The launch, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. at the DCP headquarters on Musa Gitau Road in Nairobi’s Lavington suburb, will mark Gachagua’s official exit from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), which he quit on May 12.
Gachagua and his allies have kept details of the new outfit tightly under wraps. But it has now emerged that DCP—formally registered on February 3—is the banner under which the former DP intends to rally support in the Mount Kenya region and beyond.
“What we are doing today is the unveiling of the party. The launch will happen later,” Gachagua told The Nation on Wednesday. “The party will align with the aspirations of the Mt Kenya people. Its cardinal rule will be to listen to the ground.”
Kazi na Haki
The DCP’s slogan is Kazi na Haki (Work and Justice), and its logo features a hand touching an ear—symbolising attentiveness to the people. The party’s colours are green, brown, and black.
In an earlier interview with Egesa FM, Gachagua rejected claims of ethnic bias, saying DCP’s leadership structure reflects national inclusivity.
“I have appointed a secretary general, a deputy party leader, and several top officials from outside Mt Kenya. Those calling me a tribalist will be shocked,” he said.
The DCP governing council includes Thomas Ratemo, Ado Yiembo, Mably Owino, Hussein Athman, Laura Njeri, Abdifatah Abdullahi, Joy Gatugi, Jeremiah Mong’eri, Joel Sang, John Maranga, Miriam Fredina Mariki, and Brenda Banjira Omusinda.
2027 Realignment
Gachagua has positioned himself as a voice of discontent in Mt Kenya, arguing that the region has been sidelined by the UDA administration despite helping deliver Ruto’s 2022 win.
Since his impeachment as Deputy President, Gachagua has kept Kenyans guessing about his next political move—until now.
Today’s event is expected to draw key opposition figures, including Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua (PLP), Eugene Wamalwa (DAP-Kenya), and former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, in what could signal a broader realignment ahead of 2027.
