Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has welcomed Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata into the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), describing the move as a major boost for the party ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Mr Gachagua announced Governor Kang’ata’s entry into the party after hosting him at Wamunyoro Residence, where he described the county boss as a “younger brother” and welcomed him back to what he termed “the party of the moment and the future”.
“Welcome home, Governor Irungu Kang’ata, where you belong,” Mr Gachagua said.
The former Deputy President said DCP had continued to expand since its formation and was positioning itself as a national political vehicle with ambitions of forming the majority in Parliament and county assemblies after the August 10, 2027 polls.
“Since its inception, the DCP Party has grown into a strong national party with millions of followers and thousands of prospective aspirants ahead of the 10th August 2027 polls,” he said.
Mr Gachagua said the party had attracted leaders from different parts of the country, describing its growing membership as a reflection of Kenya’s diversity.
“We now have a Member of the National Assembly and three Members of the County Assemblies from across the country, reflecting the face of Kenya,” he said.
He added that the party was focused on expanding its representation and taking control of legislative institutions in the next election cycle.
“As we prepare for the next General Election, we are determined to be the majority party in both Houses and the majority across County Assemblies,” Mr Gachagua said.
Governor Kang’ata’s move to DCP marks a significant political shift in Murang’a, a county that has traditionally been considered a key political base in the Mt Kenya region.
The announcement comes as political parties intensify mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 elections, with leaders seeking to consolidate support and attract influential figures.
Mr Gachagua was accompanied during the reception by several leaders, including DCP Secretary-General designate Senator John Methu, DCP National Organising Secretary Senator Mithika Linturi, Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, Kirinyaga Senator Kamau Murango, Laikipia Senator John Kinyua and Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa.
The entry of Governor Kang’ata is expected to strengthen DCP’s presence in the Mt Kenya region, where political realignments have gained momentum following changes in alliances ahead of the next General Election.
The party has maintained that it intends to build a nationwide movement, while its critics have questioned whether it can translate growing political enthusiasm into electoral support across the country.
With less than two years to the 2027 polls, the recruitment of high-profile leaders is likely to remain a key strategy for parties seeking to expand their influence and position themselves as serious contenders.
