The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) organising secretary, Mithika Linturi, has strongly countered remarks from Mt Kenya political leaders Justin Muturi and Peter Munya, who criticized DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua's proposal for party mergers.

Linturi addressed a joint statement by the Democratic Party (DP) leader Muturi and PNU's Munya, which challenged Gachagua's suggestion that DP, PNU, Umoja na Maendeleo Party, and BUS Party dissolve and integrate into DCP.

Linturi's Rebuttal

Instead of directly defending Gachagua's comments, Linturi urged the critics to focus on strengthening their own parties independently and avoid involving DCP in their grievances.

He emphasized that all political parties in Kenya have the freedom to market themselves as they see fit within legal boundaries, stating, "Please market your parties. Leave the boardrooms. Nobody has invited you to DCP. You are also free to persuade us to join your parties."

By-Election Results Bolster Argument

Linturi supported his stance by citing recent by-election outcomes in Mt Kenya regions:

  • In Emurua Dikirr, the PNU candidate received 80 votes compared to DCP's 10,760.
  • In Ol Kalou, PNU secured 28 votes against DCP's 35,440.
  • In Evurore and Muminji ward by-elections, MBASS and DP candidates suffered significant defeats on their traditional strongholds.

He advised the critics to adopt persuasion over intimidation, reminding them that decisions belong to the electorate.

Critics' Concerns

Muturi and Munya's joint statement argued that Gachagua lacks both legal and moral authority to dictate the futures of other parties, noting that such decisions lie with each party's lawful structures as per the Political Parties Act.

They also rejected any notion that Gachagua represents all Mt Kenya political formations, highlighting that no consensus supports this claim. Additionally, they questioned why Gachagua is engaging with elected UDA leaders without encouraging them to resign and seek fresh mandates through by-elections.

Linturi's Final Remarks

Linturi dismissed these objections as misplaced frustration, urging opponents to reflect on voters' choices rather than reacting with anger. He concluded, "When an election result hurts you, do not deflect or become overly emotional. Instead, engage in some soul-searching. Politics does not reward anger."