Former Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya and Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi have publicly opposed efforts to consolidate smaller Mt Kenya political parties into the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), led by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
In a joint statement delivered on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, both leaders emphasized the importance of restraint, structured dialogue, and mutual respect among political actors ahead of the increasingly competitive election season.
Call for Respectful Political Engagement
Munya urged political figures to avoid unnecessary confrontation, advocating instead for consultation and respectful collaboration among like-minded parties.
He warned that restraint should not be confused with surrender, and that political disagreements must be resolved through dialogue rather than public disparagement.
Specifically addressing Deputy President Gachagua, Munya appealed for an end to divisive rhetoric, encouraging engagement that respects the independence of each party.
“Durable political partnerships are built on equality, trust, and respect for institutional autonomy,” Munya said.
Concerns Over Regional Political Dominance
Both leaders cautioned against strategies aimed at weakening other parties to dominate the Mt Kenya region, highlighting that such tactics undermine democratic development.
Munya stated, “We cannot claim to be strengthening our parties while simultaneously sidelining others to control specific regions.”
The call for unity under Gachagua’s DCP had been proposed as a means to consolidate political influence in the region, but Munya and Muturi’s response signals a preference for maintaining party independence and fostering inclusive dialogue.
