Rigathi Gachagua has abandoned his U.S. tour to throw his weight behind the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) ahead of Kenya’s November by-elections.
The former Deputy President broke the news on Thursday via his X account, telling supporters he would return home to help shape his party’s campaign.
“I am sorry to cut my trip short; my profound apologies to the organisers and Kenyans I was to meet,” he wrote. “The same has been rescheduled to early next year.”
Gachagua, who launched DCP in May, said he had taken “a few days to rest” before flying back. He also thanked diaspora supporters who hosted him in several American states, expressing confidence in the party’s growth overseas.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set the by-elections for 27 November. The vote will fill long-vacant positions — some unoccupied for more than two years — in both county assemblies and Parliament.
IEBC chair Erastus Ethekon confirmed there will be 16 ward contests across the country. The list includes Angata Nanyokie in Samburu, Chemundu/Kapng’etuny in Nandi, Chewani in Tana River, Fafi in Garissa, and Kariobangi North in Nairobi. Other races will be held in Kakamega, Elgeyo Marakwet, Machakos, Narok, Kajiado, Uasin Gishu, Nyamira, and Turkana counties.
Higher-profile contests include the Baringo Senate seat and parliamentary races in Banissa, Kasipul, Magarini, Malava, Mbeere North, and Ugunja. There will also be an MCA by-election in Kabuchai.
Campaigning will run from 8 October to 24 November, between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. each day. Political parties have until 11 November to name their election agents.
The polls will use the certified voter register published in June 2022.
With the clock ticking, Gachagua’s return signals an intense push to solidify DCP’s presence both at home and abroad – and the start of a high-pressure political season.
About the Author
