NAIROBI, Kenya — The launch of former Deputy President’s Party, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has hit a major setback after Sports Kenya abruptly cancelled the booking for its planned unveiling at Kasarani’s Indoor Arena.
The party, which had scheduled its official debut for June 3, accused the government of sabotage after receiving a cancellation notice from Sports Kenya, which manages the venue.
In a statement signed by Secretary General Hezron Obaga, DCP termed the cancellation an “affront to democracy,” alleging a deliberate attempt by the state to frustrate its activities.
“The Kasarani Gymnasium Facility is a public venue which every Kenyan has a right to access and utilize for the public good,” the party said. “This indefinite cancellation is clearly intended to deter the DCP launch.”
According to correspondence shared by DCP, the party initially sought to book the venue for June 4 but was advised by Sports Kenya to move the event to June 3 due to prior commitments.
The booking was confirmed, and DCP was invoiced KSh 3.7 million.
However, just a day later, the management reversed the decision, citing preparations for the upcoming 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as the reason for unavailability.
“We regret to inform you that the venue will not be available due to prior bookings by sports teams,” read the cancellation letter signed by Acting Director General Gabriel Komora. “We are also not taking further bookings due to preparations for CHAN 2025.”
The cancellation comes against the backdrop of heightened political tension within Kenya Kwanza, where Gachagua has increasingly appeared at odds with key figures in President William Ruto’s camp.
The DCP says it is now seeking a private venue for the launch, which will be rescheduled and announced later.
The party also expressed concern over what it called growing state interference in its activities.
This is the second time in under two weeks that the party has reported government obstruction.
On May 24, during a meeting in Kakamega, DCP officials claim police disrupted their event.
