Disagreements within the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) played out in public again. Party leader Rigathi Gachagua defended the appointment of Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi as Spokesperson and Head of Secretariat for the United Opposition.
Gachagua spoke on Sunday, September 7, during a church service in Kipipiri, Nyandarua County. He dismissed criticism from his deputy, Cleophas Malala, who argued that the party should appoint younger leaders instead of senior figures.
According to Gachagua, the party needs to balance youth leadership with experienced guidance. He said Kituyi’s experience made him the right choice.
“Malala is a very capable young leader, but he misunderstood our intentions,” Gachagua said. “We chose Dr. Kituyi because while we have many Gen Z and Millennial leaders, they still need mentorship and direction.”
On September 5, Malala had raised concerns about Kituyi’s appointment. He argued that the United Opposition needed a spokesperson with fresh energy and a forward-thinking approach. Malala also skipped a key coalition meeting in Nairobi, highlighting his dissatisfaction.
Malala further caused controversy by suggesting that DCP should field its own candidate for the Mbeere North by-election. This went against other coalition members who wanted a joint candidate with DAP-Kenya.
Gachagua told Malala to remain calm. He said leadership is not just about age. “Wisdom and experience matter. We must support our young leaders by surrounding them with people who can guide them,” he said.
He also reiterated that DCP is committed to democratic processes, including fair nomination procedures. The opposition still aims to rally behind a single presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election.
Meanwhile, DCP candidate Duncan Mbui decided to run as an independent in the Mbeere North by-election. He claimed DCP had been influenced by coalition partners not to field a candidate.
