Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha has joined the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) following the party’s victory in the Ol Kalou contest.
DCP Party leader Rigathi Gachagua announced the governor’s move on July 29, while addressing the nation from Wamunyoro, accompanied by Nyandarua leaders.
“I am delighted to receive Governor Kiarie Badilisha of Nyandarua County and the entire County Assembly into the DCP Party. They have assured me that they will defend their seats on DCP Party tickets and shall be among the aspirants in the party primaries next year. I have assured them that the party primaries will be free and fair,” Gachagua said in a statement.
Moses Badilisha entered elective politics in 2022 with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the dominant party in the region at the time, as part of the Kenya Kwanza coalition led by President William Ruto.Â
In early 2022, Badilisha declared his candidacy for the position of Governor of Nyandarua County, seeking to succeed Governor Francis Kimemia, who was running for a second term.
During the August 9, 2022, General Elections, Badilisha won decisively, garnering 158,263 votes against his closest rival, incumbent Governor Francis Kimemia of the Jubilee Party, who received 120,623 votes.
Kangata Earlier Joined DCP
Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata joined former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s DCP, becoming one of the highest-ranking elected leaders to publicly associate himself with the opposition party ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Also Read:Â Poll Shows Gachagua on the Verge of Overtaking Ruto Through DCP Party
Kang’ata announced on July 25 that he would seek to retain his Murang’a gubernatorial seat in 2027 through the DCP ticket. However, he said his move would not affect his relationship with the Linda Mwananchi movement, stating that he would continue serving as a link between the party and the movement.
“Come 2027, I will defend my seat via DCP but remain a bridge that connects with Linda Mwananchi,” Kang’ata said.
The governor also reflected on an earlier prediction he made on July 20, 2024, when he said he had foreseen Gachagua’s growing political influence ahead of the next election.
Kang’ata made the announcement during a meeting held at Gachagua’s Wamunyoro residence, where the former Deputy President officially welcomed him into DCP.
“Welcome home, Governor Irungu Kang’ata, where you belong,” Gachagua said.
Kang’ata joined DCP just two months after saying he would quit the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Leaders Who Have Joined or Taken Key Roles in DCP
DCP, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has attracted several prominent politicians and public figures as it builds its political base ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Also Read:Â Sammy Kamau Ngotho of DCP Wins Ol Kalou By-Election
Irungu Kang’ata joined the party and announced that he will seek re-election in 2027 on the party ticket, while maintaining that he will continue to serve as a link between DCP and the Linda Mwananchi movement.
Former Kieni MP and East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) representative Kanini Kega also joined DCP after leaving Jubilee Party.
Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Havi joined DCP, adding his legal and public advocacy experience to the party’s growing list of members.
Former nominated Senator Millicent Omanga also joined the party after being welcomed by Gachagua, further strengthening DCP’s presence among prominent political figures.
Former Kakamega Senator and ex-UDA Secretary-General Cleophas Malala took up a leadership role in DCP after being named the party’s interim Deputy Party Leader.
Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi was also listed among the DCP officials, serving as National Organizing Secretary.
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