NAIROBI, Kenya- Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced plans to travel to the United Kingdom and the United States as part of a major fundraising drive for the Democracy for Citizens Party ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi on Tuesday, Gachagua said the overseas engagements are aimed at mobilising resources and building support networks for the party.
The former deputy president said the party is preparing for an expensive nationwide nomination exercise as political realignments intensify ahead of the next polls.
Gachagua says DCP needs Sh2 billion for nominations
According to Gachagua, the party estimates that its internal election and nomination process will cost around Sh2 billion.
He revealed that approximately Sh1 billion is expected to come from nomination fees paid by aspirants seeking party tickets.
“I have looked at your budget, and the whole election process is about Sh2 billion. From the nomination fees, we’ll be able to raise Sh1 billion, and the party will look for another one billion,” he said.
The former deputy president said the remaining amount would be sourced through fundraising initiatives and support from allies.
UK and US visits aimed at mobilising diaspora support
Gachagua said he will leave for the United Kingdom on Friday night before proceeding to the United States after returning.
He noted that the trips are directly linked to efforts to bridge the party’s funding gap before the 2027 elections.
“That is why I will leave for the United Kingdom on Friday night. After I return, I will travel to the United States to speak with our friends and partners,” he stated.
“We must raise enough resources for the elections because failure is not an option.”
The remarks signal a growing push by political parties to tap into diaspora support networks as preparations for the 2027 campaigns gather momentum.
Political realignments continue ahead of 2027 polls
The fundraising announcement comes amid heightened political activity and shifting alliances across Kenya’s political landscape.
Gachagua has recently intensified engagements with opposition figures and grassroots leaders as parties position themselves for the next election cycle.
Analysts say financing will remain one of the biggest factors shaping party influence, campaign reach and nomination battles ahead of the 2027 General Election.
