A fresh storm is brewing in the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), with rising tensions threatening to split the party down the middle.
The party’s Secretary General, Dr Eseli Simiyu, on Friday confirmed that petitions had been filed by party members seeking the removal of both Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa and his deputy, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.
Without naming names, Simiyu acknowledged growing internal friction and said the matter would be addressed through DAP-K’s Internal Disputes Resolution Committee.
“We’ve received various petitions and concerns. Everything will be handled fairly through the structures we’ve set up as a party,” Simiyu said.
The split appears to centre around the party’s direction. Natembeya is said to be leading a reformist faction pushing for a more youthful, national appeal. Wamalwa, meanwhile, reportedly favours sticking to the party’s founding ideals and grassroots base, especially in Western Kenya.
In his response, Wamalwa downplayed the tension, urging members to stay calm and not be swayed by what he called internal noise.
“This is a democratic party. I don’t feel threatened,” he told reporters.
“Msiwe na wasiwasi, chama iko imara.” (Don’t worry, the party is solid.)
He added that DAP-K was preparing to field candidates in the upcoming Malava and Ugunja by-elections, even as the leadership tussle plays out in the background.
Political observers say the power struggle could weaken the party just as it begins laying groundwork for 2027. Still, DAP-K insists the process will be handled internally and transparently.
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