The unveiling of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on May 15, 2025, has generated mixed reactions among Kenya’s youth. The new political party’s launch, which was marred by disruptions from unidentified goons, has sparked a nationwide conversation about youth involvement and political engagement.
Speaking on Citizen TV the following day, several youth leaders and representatives shared their perspectives on the impact of the event and the future of youth participation in politics.
Angel Mbuthia, Chairperson of the Jubilee Youth League, expressed concern over the negative portrayal of young people following the disruption at the launch. She criticized media reports that labeled the disruptors as youth, arguing that this unfairly tarnishes the image of the nation’s youth. “They were just goons/thugs and should be labeled as such,” Mbuthia emphasized, distancing the youth from the chaos.
On a more constructive note, youth leader Elijah Sawe urged the public to look beyond the controversies and focus on the substance of the DCP’s agenda. He encouraged young people to assess whether the party’s policies address pressing national issues such as unemployment and housing shortages. Sawe stated, “The key discussion should not be about ‘one term’ politics but about the solutions that DCP will bring to the youth and the country.”
Leadership consultant Christopher Muriithi also weighed in, noting the need for a shift in political leadership culture. He argued that the country’s challenges stem from leaders who neglect their duties once elected, forcing citizens to fend for themselves. Muriithi called for greater accountability and a leadership cut-off at the top to foster genuine progress.
Meanwhile, Ken Babu, a youth representative within the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), highlighted the ongoing struggle for youth inclusion in political party structures. He urged party leaders to prioritize meaningful youth representation, not just in leadership roles but throughout party frameworks.
The unveiling of DCP has ignited a broader discussion about the role of youth in Kenya’s political future, signaling a critical moment for engagement, responsibility, and transformation among the country’s younger generation.
