The launch of ex-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's new party, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), was marred by violence after goons stormed the venue in Lavington.
Gachagua's security men responded to the invasion by firing in the air to disperse them. Additionally, some of those caught up in the chaos were surrounded and beaten up in full glare of media cameras.
Before the dsruption, Gachagua had unveiled his DCP party in preparation for a major political showdown with his former boss, President William Ruto of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The new party's symbol is a listening ear, and its slogan is 'Skiza Wakenya', with the colours neon green, rufous red and white.
Mr Gachagua appointed himself party leader and unveiled other interim officials who will run the new party.
“As the Party Leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party, I commit that I will listen to the people of the Republic of Kenya and live up to their aspirations,” said Gachagua.
Former UDA Secretary-General Cleophas Malala has been named interim deputy party leader, while Hezron Obaga will serve as Secretary-General.
Cleophas Malala (left) and Rigathi Gachagua.
Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group
An analysis of the names unveiled as party officials shows that majority are politicians who lost in the last General Election. Others are relatively unknown individuals.
Martin Ole Kamwalo has been named deputy Secretary-General, and former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Franklin Linturi will serve as National Organising Secretary.
Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi.
Photo credit: Jared Nyataya | Nation Media Group
Peter Mwathi, the former Limuru MP, will serve as DCP’s deputy national chairperson in charge of strategy.
Former Limuru MP Peter Mwathi.
Photo credit: Joseph Kanyi | Nation Media Group
Mably Sarah Owino, a relatively unknown individual, will also serve as deputy national chairperson in charge of operations, and Annah Kavuu Mutua will serve as national treasurer.
Also set to serve as top party officials are Cate Waruguru, the former Laikipia Woman Rep, as National Women’s leader; Serah Wanjiku Thiga as National Youth Leader; John Maranga as PWD leader; former MP Maina Kamanda as Chairperson of the Eminent Persons Caucus; and David Njenga Gikonyo as Diaspora Caucus Leader.
The others are Abubakar Abdi Ogle (Deputy National Organising Secretary – Strategy), Miriam Fredina Mariki (Deputy National Organising Secretary – Operations), Andrew Kiplimo Muge (Director of Elections), Barnabas Kinyua Mpekethi (Religious Leader) and Brenda Banjira.
Gachagua described his party as the answer to many issues raised by Kenyans, including ‘punitive taxation, poor public service delivery, skyrocketing
"Our message is clear: the people of Kenya have unfinished business with you. We have a date with you in August 2027. We have not forgotten what you did to our economy or to our young men and women in June 2024," he said.
"We have not forgotten the countless lies and empty promises you make to us every day. We have not forgotten. We shall remind you in August 2027,” he concluded.
