Ex-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has lauded three leaders from Kajiado, Kilifi and Kakamega counties following their appointment to the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Democratic Conservatives Party (DCP), crediting them with helping the party assert itself during last week’s tense by-elections.
In a statement shared on social media, Gachagua congratulated Hon. Simon Sanare, Hon. Stanley Kenga and Hon. Wakili Edga Busiega, saying they “held the party’s ideals with courage” during the November 27, 2025 contests. “You did an incredible job in the by-elections,” Gachagua said, describing their performance as a sign of the party’s resilience and rising influence.
The recognition comes at a moment when DCP—widely viewed as Gachagua’s political vehicle—has been expanding rapidly, fuelled by dissatisfaction among some Kenya Kwanza supporters who accuse the ruling coalition of sidelining key regions and mishandling internal disputes. The party made notable gains in the recent by-elections, fielding competitive candidates and capitalising on divisions within UDA, particularly in Central and parts of the Coast.
Political analysts say the November by-elections exposed widening cracks in the coalition after rival factions openly clashed over endorsements, campaign financing and the future of the Deputy President’s role in the 2027 race. The contests also offered DCP an opportunity to test its organisational machinery, with Gachagua’s allies framing the party as a disciplined alternative that prioritises grassroots mobilisation.
Analysts believe by appointing the three leaders to the NEC, DCP aims to consolidate its foothold in regions where voter frustration has been simmering. Party officials say the new members will steer county-level coordination, membership recruitment and strategy development as preparations for the next election cycle accelerate.
