Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has officially launched the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), positioning it as a national movement rooted in fairness, inclusivity, and grassroots democracy.
Speaking during the party’s unveiling ceremony in Lavington, Nairobi, Gachagua delivered a firm message to his political allies and supporters: there will be no direct nominations in the new party — not even for his closest associates.
“We have no favourites. The party belongs to all Kenyans. It is the people of Kenya who will choose the candidates they want as their leaders,” Gachagua said, drawing applause from the crowd.
In a blunt warning to those expecting rewards based on loyalty, Gachagua declared, “This party has no provision for direct nominations. It believes in letting the people decide.”
He acknowledged that many leaders had stood with him through his political journey but insisted that meritocracy and democratic processes would be the hallmark of DCP.
“I have many leaders who have walked with me through difficult times, and I value them deeply. But no one is entitled to a direct nomination,” he reiterated.
The launch marked a significant shift in Kenya’s political landscape as Gachagua unveiled interim officials drawn from both former Jubilee and UDA ranks, signaling a bold move to challenge President William Ruto’s political dominance ahead of the 2027 elections.
Gachagua described DCP as a party for all Kenyans, regardless of age, tribe, faith, or social background.