Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha has officially joined the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), marking a significant political shift ahead of the 2027 general elections. The announcement was made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who welcomed Badilisha and members of the Nyandarua County Assembly into the party.
Gachagua stated that the governor and the MCAs are committed to defending their positions under the DCP banner and will actively participate in the party's nomination process next year. He assured them that the primaries would be conducted fairly.
Key highlights from the announcement include:
- The Nyandarua delegation brought a message of goodwill from the county residents, emphasizing unity and a shared vision for Kenya's future.
- Gachagua framed the defection as part of a broader movement of leaders joining DCP, signaling growing momentum for the party nationally.
- The recent Ol Kalou by-election was cited as evidence of the region's shifting political landscape, with leaders agreeing to unite the Mt Kenya vote to prevent fragmentation.
- Gachagua warned that leaders backing President William Ruto in the Mt Kenya region face significant electoral challenges, predicting low vote shares for them in 2027.
The governor’s move follows similar decisions by other regional leaders, including Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, who recently pledged allegiance to DCP. Gachagua emphasized the party’s expanding reach and readiness to field candidates across Kenya in the upcoming elections.