Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has unveiled Simon Sanare as the party’s candidate for the upcoming Purko Ward by-election in Kajiado County.
Speaking during the unveiling, the former Deputy President described Sanare as an accomplished leader, a patriot, and a true people’s person, qualities he said make him the right choice to represent Purko Ward.
“I believe in his ability to engage the common Mwananchi and to stand firmly for the rights of his people,” said Gachagua. “He is deeply committed to people-centric issues, and we are confident that his candidature will lead our party to the victory we are aspiring for in Purko Ward, Kajiado Central Constituency, Kajiado County.”
Sanare’s candidature comes at a time when the political atmosphere across the country is heating up, with aspirants and parties preparing for a wave of by-elections. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has scheduled 23 by-elections for November 27, 2025, covering six National Assembly seats, one Senate seat, and 16 Member of County Assembly (MCA) positions.
Initially, there were 22 vacancies, but the Court of Appeal’s decision on May 31 to uphold the nullification of Harrison Kombe’s election as Magarini MP pushed the tally up by one. The by-elections have been occasioned by deaths, appointments, or court rulings.
Among the notable vacancies are the Baringo Senate seat, left vacant following the death of Senator William Cheptumo, and the Ugunja and Mbere North constituencies, vacated after Opiyo Wandayi and Geoffrey Ruku were appointed to the Cabinet. The Kasipul constituency also awaits a by-election following the assassination of MP Ong’ondo Were on April 30.
Other constituencies affected include Banisa, after the death of Hassan Maalim, and Malava, following the passing of Malulu Injendi.
The DCP has expressed confidence ahead of the polls, calling on the IEBC to conduct non-partisan elections. “We are optimistic that we will win all 22 seats and that UDA will lose out in all the areas,” the party declared, signaling its intent to mount a strong challenge in the mini-polls.
