Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has formally launched the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), revealing an interim lineup of party officials as he positions himself for a major political showdown in the 2027 general elections. The announcement was made on May 15, 2025, during a launch event in Lavington, Nairobi.
At the heart of the unveiling was the naming of former UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala as the interim Deputy Party Leader, signaling a shift in political alliances and strategy. Also named was former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi, who takes up the position of National Organising Secretary.
The list, submitted to the Registrar of Political Parties for ratification, excludes current elected leaders—a notable departure from conventional political party formations in Kenya. Instead, Gachagua has turned to former government officials and experienced political operatives to steer DCP’s early structure.
Other key appointments include former Laikipia Woman Representative Catherine Waruguru as the National Women Leader, David Mingati from Kajiado as National Chairperson, and former Starehe MP, who will lead the party’s Caucus of Eminent Persons.
Additional appointments are:
- Peter Mwathi (Deputy Chairperson, Strategy – Kiambu)
- Margaret Sarah Owino (Deputy Chairperson, Operations – Kisumu)
- Hezron Obanga (Interim Secretary General – Kisii)
- Martin Kamwaro (Deputy Secretary General – Narok)
- Anne Mutua (National Treasurer – Machakos)
- Wambiru Njoka (Deputy Treasurer, Strategy)
- Thomas Mwita (Deputy Treasurer, Operations)
As part of its launch, the party also released two campaign songs in Kiswahili and English, echoing themes of economic liberation, national unity, and inclusive leadership. The party’s slogan, Skiza Wakenya (Listen to Kenyans), was repeated in chants and songs at the rally.
Unlike the UDA’s Christian-themed launch in 2021, DCP blended secular and gospel musical styles, highlighting its focus on real-life issues facing ordinary Kenyans. Gachagua’s message is clear: he aims to craft a populist movement that directly challenges President William Ruto’s administration by appealing to the frustrations of common citizens.
