Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has officially launched a satellite office for his newly formed Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) in the United States, marking a significant step in his political comeback and outreach to the Kenyan diaspora.
The launch coincides with the start of his two-month U.S. tour, which began in Seattle on July 10, 2025.
Gachagua, accompanied by his wife Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, was warmly received by enthusiastic supporters at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
DCP Satellite Office
Officially launched by Rigathi Gachagua on May 15, 2025, the DCP positions itself as a social democratic party, inspired by the 2010 Constitution of Kenya, focusing on equitable resource distribution and inclusive policies.
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The party views the inauguration of the DCP’s North Pacific Chapter Satellite Office in Seattle as a milestone in the party’s journey to connect with and serve Kenyans in the region.
The choice of Seattle is strategic, given the significant Kenyan diaspora in the Pacific Northwest, estimated at over 20,000. sources like the Seattle Global Gateway highlight a “tight-knit Kenyan population” sufficient to sustain cultural festivals and community associations, supporting the party’s choice.
“This new office will strengthen our efforts, foster greater engagement, and bring our initiatives closer to the people of Seattle and the surrounding areas,” Gachagua posted on his X account.
The office aims to strengthen the party’s initiatives and foster greater engagement with the diaspora.
DCP aim to use the office to bring services closer to Kenyans in Seattle and surrounding areas, potentially addressing consular and political needs.
The party has also stated that the office will also enable them to build a stronger, more inclusive future for all Kenyans and lead the country according to the citizen’s views.
Diaspora Engagement
Gachagua’s engagement with the diaspora is not new; prior to the office opening, he held a breakfast meeting with Kenyans in Seattle on July 11, 2025, describing it as “engaging and fruitful.”
He praised the diaspora as candid, hardworking, and forthright, noting their concerns about Kenya’s current state and hopes for improvement.
This aligns with the DCP’s philosophy of listening to Kenyans, potentially extending to political mobilization.
The diaspora’s voting power, while limited in implementation, is growing in significance. The 2010 Kenyan constitution granted diaspora voting rights, but only 10,444 were registered to vote in the 2022 elections, a small fraction of the estimated 3 million Kenyans abroad.
A 2021 study reported diaspora votes could influence 5-10% of electoral outcomes, increasing their importance their potential political leverage.
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The Kenya Embassy Washington D.C. notes the Seattle office could be a step toward mobilizing this community for future elections, especially given calls for consulates in Seattle to bring services closer.
Gachagua’s Strategy
Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment in October 2024, following allegations of corruption has shaped his political trajectory.
The DCP Party is seen as his vehicle to challenge President William Ruto and the UDA, particularly ahead of the 2027 elections.
Opening an office in Seattle is part of a broader strategy to maintain influence, both domestically and internationally.
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