Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is set to officially unveil his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) on July 7, 2025, a symbolic date that marks Saba Saba Day the historic day in 1990 when Kenyans staged nationwide protests demanding the end of one-party rule and the dawn of multi-party democracy.
The launch, initially scheduled to be held at the Kasarani Indoor Arena in Nairobi on June 3, was abruptly disrupted after Sports Kenya revoked the booking, despite the DCP having paid over Sh3.7 million for the venue. Gachagua cited political interference by the State as the reason behind the cancellation, prompting him to shift the venue to the Maa region.
Speaking on June 23 at his Wamunyoro residence during a meeting with more than 500 grassroots mobilisers from the Maa community, Gachagua declared the Maa region as the new host for the launch. His proposal was met with enthusiastic approval, as attendees raised their herding sticks in solidarity.
“This DCP party is yours,” Gachagua told the crowd. “The launch was initially planned for Nairobi, but the state interfered with venue booking. I now ask the Maa community to host this important event in their region.”
He urged the community to identify a private venue, highlighting concerns over previous disruptions of his political meetings in Nairobi by “hired goons.” Gachagua expressed confidence that the Maa region would offer a more secure and welcoming environment for the launch.
“Let a private venue be found. When we hold events among the Maa, no one can ruin them,” he said. “Now DCP is your party — welcome the guests and secure the meeting.”
The DCP aims to provide a new political platform for citizens disillusioned with current leadership, positioning itself as a grassroots movement. Gachagua’s choice of July 7 is symbolic, tying the party’s ambitions to Kenya’s long struggle for political pluralism.
The launch is expected to attract political attention nationwide as Gachagua positions himself for a larger political role ahead of the 2027 general elections.
