Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has praised the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) candidate Vincent Rotich for what he described as a strong showing in the Emurua Dikirr by-election, saying the results have shaken the political landscape of the South Rift region.
In a statement posted on his social media platforms, Gachagua congratulated Rotich for garnering 10,760 votes, terming the performance a major political breakthrough for the DCP party in a region that he claimed had been politically sidelined for decades.
Gachagua also commended the campaign team, especially women supporters whom he said campaigned tirelessly at night and during odd hours to mobilize support for the party candidate.
“Congratulations to your team of campaigners and most notably the women who campaigned for you at night and odd hours. Kenya remains hopeful and greattly indebted to you and greatrtet hope for a better future,”Gachagua said in a statement.
According to the former Deputy President, the by-election demonstrated that political parties should move away from ethnic and regional affiliations and instead focus on addressing issues affecting ordinary Kenyans, including healthcare, education, security and economic opportunities for future generations.
He further claimed that the ruling administration was forced to release millions of shillings during the final stages of the campaign in an attempt to influence voters through local administrators, chiefs and Nyumba Kumi officials.
Despite falling short in the contest, Gachagua described Vincent Rotich as “the hero of the day,” insisting that the DCP party had now emerged as a credible political alternative for leaders who feel excluded from the ruling establishment.
The former Deputy President also praised residents of Emurua Dikirr for what he termed as demonstrating independence of mind and resisting intimidation during the election period.
Gachagua announced that upon returning from his trip to the United Kingdom, he would personally visit the area to thank supporters and campaigners who backed the DCP candidate.
He expressed confidence that Vincent Rotich would remain a strong contender ahead of the 2027 General Election.
