Rigathi Gachagua, once Kenya’s Deputy President, has returned to the political stage this time, under a new banner.
On Thursday morning in Lavington, Nairobi, Gachagua officially unveiled the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), ending months of speculation about his next political move.
“Kenyans have boldly told us they have a solution to the problems facing them. They have asked us to start a party that will form a government by the people, for the people,” Gachagua told journalists and supporters at the launch.
The party, he said, was born out of six months of consultations held at his home, following his political fallout with the ruling UDA coalition. He framed the DCP as a platform for what he called “genuine national renewal.”
A Symbol of Listening
With the slogan “Skiza Wakenya” Swahili for “Listen to Kenyans” Gachagua emphasized that the new outfit would not revolve around political elites. Instead, he promised a bottom-up approach shaped by the people.
The party symbol a hand holding an ear underscores that message. Its colours: green, red, black and white.
“This is not just another political vehicle. This is a listening party. It belongs to Kenyans, not politicians,” he said.
Team Taking Shape
Alongside the unveiling came a list of interim officials, a mix of former lawmakers and Cabinet members, as well as new political voices.
Cleophas Malala, once seen as a key Gachagua ally, was named Deputy Party Leader. David Mingati will serve as Chairperson, and Hesbon Obanga as Secretary-General. Others include:
- Mithika Linturi, former Agriculture CS – National Organising Secretary
- Cate Waruguru, former Laikipia Woman Rep – National Women’s Leader
- Peter Mwathi, former Limuru MP – Deputy Chair, Strategy
- Andrew Kiplimo Muge – Director of Elections
- Maina Kamanda – Chair, Council of Eminent Persons
- Mercy Gakuya – Secretary for Education
- John Maraga – Representative for Persons with Disabilities
In a nod to younger voters, Gachagua said the party had involved Gen Z representatives from across Kenya. “We must include every generation if we are to fix what’s broken,” he noted.
What’s Next?
Gachagua announced that the official party launch is set for 4 June. After that, he will embark on a two-year nationwide tour, aiming to rally grassroots support ahead of the 2027 general election.
Though he has not formally declared a presidential run, Thursday’s event suggested ambitions far beyond party-building.
Observers say the formation of DCP could splinter support within Mt Kenya, long a battleground in national politics. But others argue it may simply hand more political ground to President William Ruto—if Gachagua and UDA end up splitting votes.
Still, Gachagua was clear on his mission.
“We’ve seen what happens when the people are ignored. We won’t make the same mistake,” he said.
