DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua welcomes Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata to DCP on July 24,2026/X
Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has joined former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), becoming one of the most prominent elected leaders to publicly align himself with the opposition outfit ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kang'ata announced that he will seek re-election as Murang'a governor on a DCP ticket while maintaining that he will continue working with the opposition's Linda Mwananchi 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 recalled that on July 20, 2024, he had predicted Gachagua's political rise ahead of the next General Election.
His announcement came during a meeting at Gachagua's Wamunyoro residence, where the former Deputy President formally welcomed him into the party.
"Welcome home, Governor Irungu Kang'ata, where you belong," Gachagua said.
DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua when he received Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata to DCP at his home on July 24,2026/X
"Today at Wamunyoro Residence, I was pleased to receive my younger brother, Governor Irungu Kang'ata, Governor of Murang'a County, as a member of our party, DCP, the party of the moment and the future."
The move is expected to bolster DCP's influence in the Mt Kenya region, where Gachagua has been consolidating support following his fallout with President William Ruto's administration.
Gachagua said the party had continued to expand since its launch and was positioning itself as a national political outfit ahead of the August 10, 2027 General Election.
"Since its inception, the DCP Party has grown into a strong national party with millions of followers and thousands of prospective aspirants ahead of the 2027 polls," he said.
He added that the party already has representation in Parliament and county assemblies.
"We now have a Member of the National Assembly and three Members of the County Assemblies from across the country, reflecting the face of Kenya. As we prepare for the next General Election, we are determined to be the majority party in both Houses and the majority across county assemblies," Gachagua said.
DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua with other opposition leaders pose for a photo with Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata at Wamunyoro residence on July 24,2026/X
The reception for Kang'ata was attended by several senior DCP leaders, including Secretary-General designate Senator John Methu, National Organising Secretary Senator Mithika Linturi, Murang'a Senator Joe Nyutu, Kirinyaga Senator Kamau Murango, Kirinyaga Senator James Murango Kinyua, Laikipia Senator John Kinyua and Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang'wa.
Kang'ata's decision marks a significant political shift in Mt Kenya politics and adds momentum to Gachagua's efforts to build DCP into a formidable challenger to the ruling UDA party as campaigns for the 2027 elections gradually gather pace.
