Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has moved to tighten his grip on grassroots politics, convening aspirants eyeing the Democratic Citizen Party (DCP) ticket ahead of the upcoming Olkalou by-election.
In a statement released Wednesday, Gachagua said the party had finalised nomination plans for the July 16, 2026 mini-poll, with primaries slated for May 9. The meeting brought together nine contenders and members of the party’s National Election Board to review what he described as a transparent roadmap.
“The aspirants have expressed satisfaction with the arrangements in place and have committed to a free, fair, and credible nomination exercise,” Gachagua said.
He emphasised that the party would not entertain backroom deals, insisting that voters would ultimately decide who carries the DCP flag.
“The decision on who will carry the party flag will be made solely by the people of Olkalou. There will be no consensus arrangements or boardroom decisions. This choice belongs to the voters,” he said.
The Olkalou by-election has drawn early attention, with Gachagua framing it as a test of the party’s internal democracy and growing influence following his dramatic fallout with President William Ruto that culminated in his impeachment last year.
Political analysts say the by-election could offer a glimpse into shifting alliances in the Mt Kenya region, where Gachagua has been seeking to consolidate support under his new political outfit.
Among those seeking the party ticket are Wakili Kiragu Wathuta, Isaac Ndirangu, Kevin Ndungu Waweru, James Waithaka Kariuki, Stephen Kimani Muturi, Peter Mwangi Karanja, Paul Waiganjo, Kamau Ngotho and Gabriel Gatinu Wambui.
Gachagua urged the candidates to maintain decorum during campaigns and to unite behind the eventual winner.
“Whoever emerges victorious will carry the collective strength and support of the rest,” he said.
He also called on Olkalou residents to turn out in large numbers during the nominations, saying the process would shape the party’s chances in the by-election and determine its next Member of Parliament.
The by-election was triggered following the vacancy of the Olkalou parliamentary seat after the death of the area MP earlier this year, setting in motion constitutional requirements for a fresh vote within 90 days. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission subsequently announced the July 16 date, paving the way for parties to begin internal nomination processes.
The contest is expected to attract heightened political interest, not only because of the vacancy but also due to its timing amid shifting political alliances, with parties keen to test their popularity on the ground ahead of the 2027 General Election.
