Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has alleged that the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is planning to infiltrate former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) ahead of the 2027 General Election by backing candidates who are aligned to the government but contesting under the opposition-linked party.
Speaking to the media at Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, Cherargei claimed that the strategy is aimed at maintaining UDA’s political influence in the Mt Kenya region despite rising support for the emerging DCP political formation.
He alleged that some candidates could be sponsored under rival party tickets but remain loyal to UDA interests behind the scenes.
“As a government, Mt Kenya is a stronghold of UDA. We will not allow anybody or some individuals to masquerade. We are going to have our candidates in UDA and also in DCP, but they sing UDA at night,” he claimed.
Cherargei further pointed to heightened political competition in key races such as the Kirinyaga gubernatorial contest, saying succession politics in the region have already intensified as Governor Anne Waiguru approaches the end of her final term.
He maintained that the Kenya Kwanza administration is keen on ensuring that leaders supportive of its agenda secure elective seats across the region.
“I was in Murang’a and Kirinyaga. We have some women leaders there and we must ensure we win. We must have people who are friendly and after the election they will come home,” he said.
The senator also launched a strong attack on Gachagua, accusing him of running DCP in a manner he described as a “highest auction house,” where political tickets are allegedly awarded based on financial influence rather than grassroots support.
“I want to warn all aspirants under DCP that it is the highest auction in the house. Some of us have intelligence that those who are funded will be given party tickets,” Cherargei alleged.
He further questioned Gachagua’s recent political tour in the United Kingdom, claiming that the former Deputy President had failed to raise the anticipated political funds abroad.
“He told us he was going to raise Ksh 2 billion in London, but I am told he raised only Ksh 2 million because Kenyans both locally and abroad know he is a political conman,” he claimed.
However, allies of Gachagua dismissed the allegations, stating that his UK visit was cut short due to urgent political engagements in Kenya, including preparations for the Ol Kalou by-election and strengthening of DCP structures.
The remarks come at a time of visible political realignments in Mt Kenya, with several leaders shifting allegiance and aligning with emerging opposition movements ahead of the 2027 polls.
Despite the growing political activity, Cherargei insisted that UDA remains dominant in the region, dismissing rival formations as lacking real grassroots support.
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