By:Robert Mutasi
Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has joined former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party, becoming one of the most prominent elected leaders to publicly align himself with the opposition outfit ahead of the 2027 general election.
Kang’ata announced Thursday that he will seek reelection as Murang’a governor on a DCP ticket while maintaining that he will continue working with the opposition’s Linda Mwananchi movement.
“Come 2027, I will defend my seat via DCP but remain on a bridge that connects with Linda Mwananchi,” Kang’ata said.
His announcement came during a meeting at Gachagua’s Wamunyoro residence, where the former deputy president formally welcomed him into the party.
“Welcome home, Governor Irungu Kang’ata, where you belong,” Gachagua said.
The move is expected to bolster DCP’s influence in the Mount Kenya region, where Gachagua has been consolidating support following his fallout with President William Ruto’s administration.
Kang’ata recalled that on July 20, 2024, he had predicted Gachagua’s political rise ahead of the next general election.
“Today at Wamunyoro Residence, I was pleased to receive my younger brother, Governor Irungu Kang’ata, Governor of Murang’a County, as a member of our party, DCP, the party of the moment and the future,” Gachagua said.
Gachagua said the party has continued to expand since its launch and is positioning itself as a national political outfit ahead of the Aug. 10, 2027, general election.
“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 2027 polls,” he said.
He added that the party already has representation in Parliament and county assemblies.
“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. 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,” Gachagua said.
The reception for Kang’ata was attended by several senior DCP leaders, including Secretary-General designate Sen. John Methu, National Organizing Secretary Sen. Mithika Linturi, Murang’a Sen. Joe Nyutu, Kirinyaga Sen. Kamau Murango, Laikipia Sen. John Kinyua and Kiambu Sen. Karungo wa Thang’wa.
Kang’ata’s defection from the ruling United Democratic Alliance marks a significant political shift in Mount Kenya politics and adds momentum to Gachagua’s efforts to build DCP into a formidable challenger to UDA as campaigns for the 2027 elections gradually gather pace.
