Political activities in Laikipia are intensifying as the 2027 General Election approaches, with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua engaging local leaders to expand the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) influence in the county.

On July 29, 2026, Gachagua hosted a group of Laikipia leaders at his Wamunyoro residence. Several attendees were seen sporting DCP-branded caps, signaling growing support. The delegation included MCAs from various wards such as Paul Kirenyi Leshuel (Mukogodo East), Nicholas Mwaniki Muturi (Tigithi), Irene Wachuka (Igwamiti), Catherine Nyokabi Kibui (Ngobit), Daniel Mugweru Muchemi (Umande), Simon Kanyutu Kimani (Marmanet), Samuel Mugambi Gatati (Salama), Stephen Ndiritu Kamau (Thingithu), Anthony Theuri Wambui (Nanyuki and Deputy Speaker of Laikipia County Assembly), George Karuiru Wairimu (Ol-Moran), Joseph Gitahi Macharia (Githiga), and Mary Gathoni Muriuki (Specially Elected MCA).

Gachagua described the gathering as evidence of a shift in political allegiances, noting a growing exodus from parties like UDA and TSP toward DCP. He predicted that by December, these parties would be significantly weakened.

Following the meeting, Umande MCA Daniel Mugweru publicly confirmed his switch to DCP, citing his commitment to servant leadership and inclusive development after consulting his constituents. In a Facebook statement, Mugweru expressed optimism about the new political path and its potential to deliver a prosperous future.

Expanding DCP’s Footprint in Mount Kenya

Laikipia has traditionally been a stronghold for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), with several MCAs elected under its banner in 2022. The county has also been an active base for the Service Party (TSP), led by former Agriculture CS Mwangi Kiunjuri.

Gachagua’s efforts come ahead of a planned visit to Nanyuki, where he is expected to meet further leaders and supporters from Laikipia and neighboring counties. This follows DCP’s notable performance in the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, which party officials cite as a sign of shifting political dynamics in Mount Kenya.

Notable leaders like Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Nyandarua Governor Moses Kiarie Badilisha have also joined DCP. Badilisha, welcomed alongside Nyandarua County Assembly leadership at Wamunyoro, intends to defend his seat on a DCP ticket in 2027.

Gachagua has revealed that more MCAs from Laikipia and Nakuru have visited Wamunyoro, expressing interest in running under DCP. As the election nears, the realignment of elected officials across parties is expected to remain a significant aspect of grassroots mobilisation.

The recent meeting, Mugweru’s public declaration, and the upcoming Nanyuki visit underscore a notable political shift in Laikipia ahead of the 2027 polls.