DCP Did Not Field Candidate in Mbeere North By-Election – Gachagua
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has clarified that the Democratic Party (DCP) did not field a candidate in the recent Mbeere North by-election, dismissing claims that the party suffered a defeat.
Speaking on Sunday, November 30, during a Thanksgiving Service at PCEA Kariobangi North, Gachagua stressed that the party’s absence in the race was part of a broader political strategy and not a reflection of electoral weakness.
“There is no DCP candidate in Mbeere North. We chose to focus our resources and strategy elsewhere. What happened in that by-election should not be misinterpreted as a loss for the party,” he said.
The by-election saw United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Muthende win with 15,802 votes, narrowly beating Newton Karish, who was backed by the United Opposition and the Deputy President. Karish trailed with 15,308 votes.
While some opposition figures described the UDA victory as a blow to DP-aligned parties, Gachagua dismissed such claims, reiterating that the DCP had deliberately opted out of the contest.
“DCP is fully focused on Nairobi and other strategic areas where we have plans to field candidates in 16 out of 17 constituencies and in 75 out of 88 wards. The party’s priorities are clear, and Nairobi remains our main focus for 2027,” he added.
Gachagua also confirmed an agreement with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to allow the DCP to contest major Nairobi posts, including governor, senator, and woman representative positions.
The remarks come amid growing political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties consolidating their positions in key urban and rural constituencies.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto congratulated the winners of the Mbeere North by-election, describing the results as a positive indicator for UDA while cautioning the opposition about the need for a stronger agenda.
Muthende now succeeds Geoffrey Ruku, who was appointed to the Cabinet earlier this year, marking a shift in local leadership.
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DCP Did Not Field Candidate in Mbeere North By-Election – Gachagua