Gachagua Launches 'Democracy for Citizens Party,' Eyes 2027 Presidential Bid

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has officially unveiled his new political entity, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), signalling his intentions to contest the 2027 General Election. 

The launch, held on May 15 in Nairobi’s Lavington area, positions Gachagua as a champion of the common citizen, promising a government that prioritises listening to the concerns of ordinary Kenyans. The DCP's central message revolves around the concept of attentive governance, encapsulated in its slogan, "Skiza Wakenya" (Listen to Kenyans), and symbolised by a logo featuring a cupped hand around an ear. Gachagua has encouraged the public to interpret the slogan colloquially, reinforcing the party’s commitment to grassroots engagement.

The launch represents a clear departure from Gachagua's past political affiliations. In a direct critique of his former political allies, particularly President William Ruto, Gachagua emphasises that DCP is grounded in truth and transparency. He made a point of stating, "I detest lies. That is why I disagreed with liar number one," alluding to a fractured relationship with the current President.

The DCP’s platform hinges on the promise of equal opportunity and internal party democracy. Gachagua stresses that the party would not offer preferential treatment to any aspirant, regardless of their personal connections. "This party has no favourite candidates. There is no provision for direct nominations. If you are my friend, none of you should expect an easy ride—be prepared to face each other in party primaries," he asserted.

The unveiling event also introduced the DCP's interim leadership team, comprising seasoned political figures:

Interim Deputy Party Leader: Cleophas Malala (Former United Democratic Alliance Secretary-General)

Chairperson: David Mingati

Deputy Chair for Strategy: Peter Mwathi

Deputy Chair for Operations: Margaret Sarah Owino

Secretary-General: Hesbon Obanga

National Treasurer: Hannah Mutua

Strategy: Evangeline Wanjiru Njoka

Financial Affairs: Thomas Mwita

National Organising Secretary: Mithika Linturi (Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary)

Director of Elections: Andrew Kiplimo Muge

National Women Leader: Catherine Waruguru

Chairperson of the Council of Eminent Persons: Maina Kamanda (Former Starehe MP)

In addition to these key appointments, the DCP has established structures to engage specific demographics, including the diaspora, religious groups, youth, and persons with disabilities. David Njenga will lead the Diaspora Caucus, Albanus Kinyua will oversee religious affairs, and Cera Wanjiku will serve as the National Youth Leader. The DCP has integrated music into its campaign strategy, releasing rallying songs in Kiswahili and English. The songs advocate for economic liberation, expanded democratic space, and improved governance. 

One Kiswahili song calls on Kenyans to resist economic oppression, chanting, "Komboa payslip, Okoa Wakenya, Unganisha Kenya!" (Liberate the payslip, Save Kenyans, Unite Kenya!). Another track focuses on healthcare reform and financial relief, stating, "Skiza Wakenya! DCP ni mwamko mpya, utaboresha afya na itaokoa payslip!" (Listen to Kenyans! DCP is a new awakening, it will improve healthcare and save the payslip!). 

In contrast to the 2021 launch of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), which heavily featured Christian themes, DCP's music blends secular and gospel influences, indicating a strategic shift toward issue-based messaging. The launch event was marred by a brief outbreak of violence as Gachagua and other DCP officials were leaving the venue. Suspected instigators attempted to disrupt the proceedings, prompting security personnel to intervene. 

Videos circulating online show security officers firing warning shots to disperse the crowd. Although tensions flared, the situation was quickly brought under control. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has condemned the violence, emphasising the need for tolerance in Kenya’s political sphere. 

"Our country must exercise democratic tolerance and embrace issue-based politics," Kindiki stated. "Insults, violence, and divisive rhetoric as a means of processing political differences of opinion have no place in our society." 

He reiterated the importance of safeguarding Kenya’s democratic progress, adding, "We owe it to current and future generations to uphold a nation built on peaceful coexistence and mutual respect, even when we disagree on policy matters."

The DCP's official launch is scheduled for June 4, with the location yet to be disclosed. Gachagua's positioning of himself as the voice of marginalised Kenyans comes at a critical juncture, particularly in light of the controversial June 2024 anti-finance bill protests, which highlighted public discontent with the government’s policies. Through the DCP, Gachagua aims to address what he perceives as a void in political representation, promising a leadership that prioritises listening to the needs and grievances of the Kenyan people.