Gachagua Targets North Eastern Vote as He Warns of ‘Political Intimidation’ Ahead of High-Stakes Elections
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his political outreach in North Eastern Kenya, meeting aspiring candidates from the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) while issuing a stark warning over alleged political intimidation as the country moves closer to the next General Election.
In a statement shared via X on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, Gachagua portrayed the North Eastern region as politically awakened and increasingly assertive, signalling what he described as a shift in the region’s role in shaping Kenya’s leadership trajectory.
“The people of North Eastern are no longer passive participants in national affairs,” Gachagua said. “They are alert, engaged, and ready to take their rightful place in determining the future of this country.”
The former deputy president, who now leads the DCP, met with a group of party aspirants from the region, in what analysts interpret as a strategic push to expand his political base beyond his traditional strongholds.
However, Gachagua also raised concerns about what he termed as rising cases of political intimidation, cautioning that such practices could undermine democratic participation if left unchecked.
“We must reject a culture where leaders or supporters are threatened or coerced for their political choices,” he said. “Every Kenyan, regardless of region, deserves the freedom to express their political will without fear.”
His remarks come amid growing reports from various parts of the country alleging pressure on emerging political players, particularly in regions considered battlegrounds ahead of the elections.
Gachagua further noted that residents of North Eastern Kenya are increasingly demanding inclusion in national decision-making processes, breaking away from what he described as years of political marginalisation.
“They want their voices heard, respected, and counted just like any other Kenyan community,” he added.
The North Eastern region has historically played a quieter role in national politics, but recent developments suggest a shift as political leaders intensify grassroots mobilisation efforts in the run-up to what is expected to be a fiercely contested election.
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