DCP bows out of key by-elections to back opposition partners, sets sights on 2027

The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) has announced it will not field candidates in three upcoming by-elections, instead throwing its weight behind aspirants from allied opposition parties.

The decision was reached during a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Nairobi and communicated by party leader Rigathi Gachagua on Wednesday, September 10.

Gachagua explained that the move reflects DCP’s broader strategy to strengthen opposition unity ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The NEC resolved to back the Democratic Party (DP) candidate in the Mbeere North Constituency by-election, noting the seat had previously been held by DP. In Muumbuni Ward, the party will support Wiper, while in Bungoma’s Kabuchai/Chwele Ward, DCP pledged its support to a DAP-K candidate.

“For the sake of unity, we are making deliberate choices in areas previously held by our partners. This is not a sign of weakness but a commitment to the bigger picture,” Gachagua said during a press briefing after the NEC meeting.

However, Gachagua made it clear that the party would still field candidates in other elective seats nationwide, promising to mobilise supporters and resources under the DCP banner.

To prepare for upcoming political contests, the NEC also announced the creation of a fully equipped Electoral Secretariat to coordinate strategy, logistics, messaging, branding, and fundraising. In addition, the National Elections Board (NEB) and the Internal Disputes Resolution Committee (IDRC) have been strengthened to oversee nominations and address disputes.

DCP’s withdrawal from the Mbeere North race follows the defection of candidate Duncan Mbui, who quit the party on September 6 to vie as an independent. Mbui accused DCP of succumbing to pressure from allied opposition partners.

Meanwhile, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued fresh guidelines for the November 27 mini-polls. Campaigns will run daily from 7 am to 6 pm starting October 8. Independent candidates will also be required to present clearance certificates from the Registrar of Political Parties, proving they have not belonged to any party at least three months before the by-election.