Kenya's Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has publicly dissociated himself from remarks made by his deputy, Cleophas Malala, who claimed the party had settled on Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna as its 2027 presidential candidate. Gachagua addressed the matter in a television interview on Wednesday, October 28, describing Malala's declaration as a personal position rather than an official party stance.
Gachagua stated that Malala was entitled to hold and express his view, but should have made clear that it reflected his personal wish and not a decision taken by the party. He emphasized that Malala is not the official spokesman of DCP, and that the party's spokesman is either the secretary general or the party leader. This public correction comes amid growing interest in the 2027 presidential election.
Gachagua offered an explanation for why Malala made the declaration, framing it as a calculated move to appeal to voters in Western Kenya. He compared Malala's remarks to President Ruto's habit of telling regional audiences what they want to hear. Gachagua described Malala as "a good politician" and one of the young leaders he mentors, adding that he could not be harsh on him.
Despite the public correction, Gachagua acknowledged that Western Kenya voters would naturally favour Sifuna as a presidential flag bearer. He confirmed that Malala has been actively lobbying him to back Sifuna, and continues to do so. Gachagua expressed uncertainty about whether Malala had made a similar approach to Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
Gachagua met with Kalonzo Musyoka at his Wamunyoro home on Monday, and Kalonzo reportedly expressed surprise at Malala's public declaration when the two discussed the matter. Gachagua advised Malala to be more categorical in the future about what constitutes personal opinion and what is official party opinion.
Sifuna's 2027 presidential campaign has been moving forward, with the Linda Mwananchi movement endorsing him at a leadership retreat on September 26. On October 4, he unveiled The Equitable Party as the vehicle for his 2027 bid. A July TIFA survey placed Sifuna at 15%, behind only President Ruto at 24%, with Kalonzo at 13% and Gachagua at 7%.
Gachagua said he saw nothing wrong with the lobbying activity surrounding the 2027 race. As the campaign season heats up, it remains to be seen how the DCP and its leaders will navigate the complex landscape of Kenyan politics. The party's stance on Sifuna's candidacy and the relationship between Gachagua and Malala will likely continue to be closely watched.
Key points
- Gachagua publicly rebuked Malala for announcing the party's support for Sifuna's 2027 presidential bid without official approval.
- Malala's declaration was seen as a calculated move to appeal to voters in Western Kenya.
- Sifuna's 2027 presidential campaign has gained ground with endorsements from the Linda Mwananchi movement and The Equitable Party.
