Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed allegations that his party intends to weaken or absorb smaller opposition parties. The remarks come after criticism from Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi, former Meru Governor Peter Munya, and ex-Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti, who opposed Gachagua's suggestion to merge regional parties into a single regional DCP vehicle.
Speaking from his Wamunyoro residence on August 5, Gachagua emphasized that these concerns misrepresent his position. "I want many parties," he said, adding that the opposition would be stronger with multiple active parties competing fairly.
Gachagua highlighted his party's popularity as a result of persistent grassroots engagement, recounting recent meetings held across counties such as Laikipia, Nyandarua, Kiambu, Kajiado, and Narok. He challenged other party leaders to intensify their voter outreach rather than criticize DCP's rise.
Focus on Grassroots Mobilization
- Gachagua cited his rigorous schedule, including multiple meetings weekly in various towns.
- He urged parties to build their bases and promote their agendas consistently.
- Electoral success, he argued, depends on sustained effort, not merely on political alliances.
He invited Muturi, Munya, and Kivuti to continue collaborating toward their shared goal of unseating President William Ruto in the 2027 elections. However, he clarified that competition among parties would remain for all elective positions except the presidential candidate, where a single nominee would be chosen.
Demonstrated Coalition Respect
To illustrate his commitment to multiparty cooperation, Gachagua recalled DCP stepping aside for a DP candidate during the Mbeere by-election last year. Despite having a popular candidate, DCP supported the DP nominee, with Gachagua personally campaigning for ten days alongside his team. This, he said, showed respect for coalition partners and disproved claims that DCP seeks to dominate other parties.
