Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has denied claims that his party has endorsed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as its presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election. Gachagua clarified that recent statements by Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala were personal opinions and not official party policy. According to Gachagua, only the party leader or secretary general can make authoritative statements on party decisions.
Gachagua explained that Malala's comments were likely a strategic move to appeal to voters in Western Kenya, a region where Senator Sifuna enjoys significant support. He noted that Malala's remarks were intended to resonate with the people of Western Kenya, who would naturally want Sifuna to be the flag bearer. Gachagua acknowledged that Malala has been lobbying him and Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka to support Sifuna's presidential ambitions.
Gachagua emphasized that Malala's statements should not be interpreted as an official party consensus, and that no formal endorsement has taken place. He reiterated that clear boundaries must be drawn between individual advocacy and official party resolutions. Gachagua stated that Malala is free to push for Sifuna's candidacy, but it is not the party's position.
The DCP leader revealed that Malala has been actively lobbying him and Kalonzo Musyoka to throw their weight behind Sifuna's presidential ambitions. Gachagua acknowledged that Malala has tried to persuade him to support Sifuna, but maintained that he cannot persuade Kalonzo to do so. He encouraged leaders across the political spectrum to continue engaging in dialogue and lobbying.
Gachagua hosted Sifuna at his home last week and welcomed Kalonzo on Monday as talks continue over a united opposition candidate to face President William Ruto during the 2027 General Election. He described intense negotiations as a customary and healthy part of building coalitions ahead of the 2027 race. Gachagua stated that Sifuna himself should persuade Kalonzo, and that everybody should persuade each other.
According to Gachagua, Malala lacks the mandate to articulate official party policy, and his statements should not be taken as representative of the party's stance. Gachagua pointed out that the party spokesman is either the party leader or the secretary general, and Malala's comments were merely personal sentiments.
The controversy surrounding Malala's comments highlights the ongoing lobbying and negotiations ahead of the 2027 General Election. Gachagua's clarification aims to set the record straight on the DCP's official position, while also emphasizing the importance of dialogue and coalition-building in the lead-up to the election.
Key points
- Rigathi Gachagua refutes claims of DCP support for Edwin Sifuna's presidential bid, stating it's not the party's position.
- Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala's comments were personal opinions and not official party policy.
- Gachagua encourages leaders to engage in dialogue and lobbying ahead of the 2027 General Election.
