Wamuzi News Ke
In a dramatic twist shaking the United Opposition coalition, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has announced it will not field a candidate in the Mbeere North by-election—opting instead to throw its full support behind the Democratic Party (DP).
In a statement released Wednesday, September 10, DCP leader Gachagua justified the move as a strategic display of fairness and unity among coalition partners, stating that the Mbeere North seat was traditionally held by DP and should remain so under the United Opposition pact.
“In the spirit of collaboration and fairness under the united opposition… DCP shall support the Democratic Party (DP) in Mbeere North Constituency… acknowledging that the seat was previously held by DP and should rightfully be retained,” Gachagua declared.
Coalition Fragility Exposed
The announcement marks a notable departure for DCP, which confirmed it will continue to field its own candidates in other by-elections. Specifically, the party will back Wiper in Muumbuni Ward and DAP-K in Bungoma’s Kabuchai/Chwele Ward—demonstrating selective coalition alignment.
Political analysts interpret the decision as a calculated move ahead of the 2027 general election—a signal of strategic positioning within the broader opposition landscape.
However, the fallout was swift. DCP parliamentary aspirant Duncan Mbui, who had anticipated contesting the seat under the party banner, accused the leadership of betrayal, labeling the party “a members’ club” serving external interests rather than local aspirations.
Mbui, the sitting Evurore Ward MCA, stunned the political arena by declaring his intention to run independently, citing the DCP’s decision as a deliberate sabotage of his ambition—and that of his grassroots supporters.
Independent Run Threatens Vote Splitting
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) requires Mpbeere North independent candidates to have been non-affiliated with any political party for at least three months prior to the vote and to submit designated symbols and names by September 17. Mbui’s declaration meets these conditions, adding complexity to an already unpredictable race.
Observers warn that his entry as an independent could fragment the opposition vote—potentially opening the door for rival parties to exploit the split.
A Test of United Opposition Credibility
Gachagua’s decision to cede the seat to DP underlines both a commitment to coalition unity and the risks embedded in top-down political maneuvering. The United Opposition’s promise of fairness is now being tested at the grassroots level.
With the by-election set for November 27, 2025, all eyes will be on whether Mbui’s independent bid resonates with voters—and whether DCP’s strategic choice will yield dividends or fuel internal dissent.
