Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has formally joined the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), led by Rigathi Gachagua, marking a significant political shift just months before the 2027 general elections.
Kang'ata's move follows his May announcement that he would not seek re-election under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) banner, citing strategic differences with the party. After several months of discussions and aligning with the Linda Mwananchi faction, Kang'ata committed to DCP during a ceremony held at Wamunyoro Residence, Nyeri County, on July 24, 2026.
Welcoming Kang'ata, DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua described the governor's defection as a homecoming, emphasizing that the party now counts a sitting governor, a Member of Parliament Sammy Douglas Kamau, and three Members of County Assemblies among its ranks.
Gachagua expressed optimism following DCP's recent Ol Kalou by-election victory on July 16, asserting the party's ambition to secure a majority in both parliamentary houses and county assemblies nationwide.
Kang'ata’s Political Journey
Kang'ata has been active in Kenya's political landscape since 2013 when he was elected Kiharu MP under The National Alliance (TNA). He later joined the Jubilee Party in 2017, winning the Murang'a Senate seat before his recent transition to DCP.
Despite Kang'ata's departure, UDA maintains significant influence in the Mt Kenya region, controlling eight governorships including Nakuru County.
Key Figures Present at DCP Event
- Rigathi Gachagua – DCP Party Leader
- Senator John Methu – Secretary-General
- Senator Mithika Linturi – National Organising Secretary
- Senator Joe Nyutu – Murang'a
- Senator John Kinyua – Kirinyaga and Laikipia
- Senator Kamau Murango – Kirinyaga
- Senator Karungo wa Thang'wa – Kiambu
The event symbolized a consolidation of political alliances within the region as DCP positions itself for greater influence in the upcoming electoral cycle.
