Rigathi Gachagua, the former Deputy President, is preparing to unveil a new political party in Nairobi on Thursday a clear sign that his break with President William Ruto is now complete.
The new outfit, named the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), will serve as Gachagua’s political vehicle as he gears up for the 2027 general election. The party, quietly registered in February, has operated under the radar until now, a move insiders say was meant to avoid state interference.
The DCP’s colours green, brown, and black echo themes of the land, labour, and the people. Its logo, a hand touching an ear, speaks to Gachagua’s new slogan: “Kazi na Haki” -Work and Justice.
In an interview with Egesa FM earlier this week, Gachagua gave a glimpse of his intentions:
“I’m launching a national party this week with its roots in Mount Kenya,” he said. “This party will give voice to Kenyans who feel abandoned.”
It is his strongest statement yet since resigning from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) on Monday, in a scathing letter denouncing the party’s direction.
“UDA has become the most dangerous political moment for the people and the Republic of Kenya,” he wrote, accusing Ruto’s government of economic mismanagement, weakening public institutions, and abandoning the principles they once campaigned on.
A Quiet Build-Up, Then a Bold Step
On Tuesday evening, Gachagua and his close allies met behind closed doors in Nairobi to finalize the leadership structure of the party. On the list 12 individuals on the DCP governing council, including Thomas Ratemo, Mably Owino, Joy Gatugi, and Abdifatah Abdullahi names that hint at a push for national inclusivity.
Still, the full list lacks widely recognised political heavyweights. That may soon change.
Sources close to the former Deputy President say he is actively seeking alliances with Opposition figures like Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper), Martha Karua (PLP), Eugene Wamalwa (DAP-K), and former Interior Minister Fred Matiang’i.
While none of those leaders have formally joined him, the move signals Gachagua’s ambitions to build a broader anti-Ruto alliance one that could cut across regional and ethnic lines.
Tensions Rising in Mount Kenya
Gachagua’s move has stirred the political pot in Mount Kenya, a region seen as key to any presidential bid. Once Ruto’s staunchest supporter in Central Kenya, Gachagua’s fallout with the president has triggered visible unease within the UDA base.
Kajiado Senator Seki Lenku Ole Kanar, a close ally of Gachagua, confirmed on Tuesday that he will contest his next election on the DCP ticket.
“We said we must look for a political vehicle, and we have agreed that it is the one by Wamunyoro,” said Seki in reference to Gachagua’s popular nickname. “The chairman of this party will be from Kajiado County.”
Seki is among those eyeing the Kajiado governorship in 2027, and his open support signals that Gachagua’s movement is already drawing interest beyond Mount Kenya.
What Comes Next?
While Thursday’s event will unveil the DCP name and identity, sources suggest the full party launch complete with a public rally will come later this month.
For now, Gachagua is walking a political tightrope. He must build momentum without appearing too confrontational, especially in a country still healing from the sharp political divisions of past elections.
But his message is clear: Ruto no longer speaks for all those who brought him to power.
And with a new party behind him, Gachagua is preparing to make that case directly to the people.
