Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made his next big political step by launching a new political party. Named the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), the party aims to give Mt. Kenya voters a fresh political alternative ahead of the 2027 general election.
During the launch on May 15 in Lavington, Nairobi, Gachagua outlined the DCP Party’s mission — to listen to ordinary citizens and prioritize their needs.
With a slogan that reads “Skiza Wakenya” and a bold neon green, brown, and white theme, DCP is designed to stand out in Kenya’s political landscape.
Gachagua Takes Control of DCP Party Leadership with Strategic Appointments
The DCP Party, according to Gachagua, will be people-centered and focused on grassroots needs. He unveiled the party’s identity through a symbolic logo of an ear being cupped — a sign of listening attentively to citizens. The vibrant party colors and clear branding show his readiness to step into the 2027 race with renewed energy and a fresh political vehicle.
Gachagua himself will serve as the party leader. In a move seen as a surprise by political observers, he appointed former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala as the interim Deputy Party Leader. Malala’s inclusion shows Gachagua’s aim of spreading his influence beyond his Mt. Kenya stronghold into Western Kenya.
The appointment of Mithika Linturi as the National Organising Secretary adds a mix of experience and controversy, given Linturi’s past roles as a senator and Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture. This strategic inclusion signals the DCP Party’s intention to tap into familiar political networks.
The leadership team also includes former Laikipia Women Representative Cate Waruguru as the National Women Leader. Waruguru has previously been vocal on women’s and youth issues and is expected to mobilize grassroots support.
David Mingati has been named the National Chairperson, deputised by Peter Mwathi and Sarah Owino, who will manage Strategy and Operations respectively. Hezron Obanga takes over as Secretary General, with Martin Ole Kamwaro as his deputy.
The National Treasury role will be led by Anna Mutua, assisted by Evangeline Njoka and Tomwas Nyangi. This blend of old political faces and new loyalists showcases Gachagua’s desire to form a stable team while maintaining control over the party’s direction.
DCP Party’s Symbolism and Message to Kenyans
The DCP Party’s slogan “Skiza Wakenya” means “Listen to Kenyans.” This message reflects Gachagua’s pitch for inclusivity and a leadership style built on public consultation. At the event, he spoke of holding several community dialogues over six months at his Wamunyoro home, where he hosted ordinary citizens to understand their concerns.
He insisted that the party is not a one-man show but a product of wide consultations. “We sat down with Kenyans, listened, and asked tough questions. The DCP is what they want — a party for the people and by the people,” Gachagua said.
The party’s logo is both symbolic and strategic. It features an ear and hand in a listening posture, which clearly communicates the party’s mission — listening and acting based on public needs. The color scheme, which includes neon green, brown, and white, aims to distinguish the DCP Party in both rural and urban campaign settings.
Gachagua’s decision to step out of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and form his own party points to possible growing rifts within Kenya Kwanza. However, he has yet to directly challenge President William Ruto. Still, observers believe the formation of DCP signals that Gachagua is laying the groundwork for either a presidential bid or greater bargaining power come 2027.
Familiar Names Missing From DCP Party Lineup
Although the DCP Party includes known political names, several expected allies were missing from the lineup. The absence of key Mount Kenya politicians such as Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has raised eyebrows.
Political analysts see this as either a cautious move or a sign that some of Gachagua’s former allies are distancing themselves from the new outfit. Others believe they may be watching from the sidelines, waiting to see how the DCP Party performs before jumping in.
Still, the party does have elder statesmen like Maina Kamanda, who will serve as the Chair of the Council of Eminent Persons. Kamanda’s presence gives the DCP Party some historical weight and a sense of political continuity.
Gachagua has promised to make the DCP Party inclusive and open to all Kenyans, especially youth and women. By placing women in key financial and leadership positions, the party signals its intention to appeal to a wide demographic base.
