Gachagua Launches Democracy for Citizens Party, Names Its Top Leadership ‬Including Malala

NAIROBI, May 15, 2025 – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has officially launched the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), marking a significant step in his political roadmap to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.

The launch, held in Lavington, Nairobi, saw Gachagua unveil the party’s interim leadership and debut rallying songs aimed at galvanizing support across Kenya.

The DCP, whose slogan “Skiza Wakenya” (Listen to Kenyans) emphasizes responsiveness to citizens’ needs, has submitted its leadership roster to the Registrar of Political Parties for ratification.

Notably, the lineup excludes current elected leaders, signaling Gachagua’s intent to build a fresh political movement.

Among the top appointees is former UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala, named deputy party leader, alongside other political heavyweights from the defunct UDA and Jubilee parties.

“This is a party for all Kenyans, built on the principles of listening, uniting, and redeeming our nation from economic oppression,” Gachagua declared during the launch.

He outlined the DCP’s focus on addressing punitive policies, improving healthcare, and “redeeming the payslip” for struggling workers.

Gachagua during the launch of his new party in Nairobi.

The interim leadership includes former Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi as National Organizing Secretary, former Laikipia Woman Representative Catherine Waruguru as National Women Leader, and David Mingati from Kajiado as National Chairperson.

Other key figures include Hezron Obanga (Interim Secretary General, Kisii), Anne Mutua (National Treasurer, Machakos), and Peter Mwathi (Deputy Chairperson, Strategy, Kiambu).

A caucus of eminent persons will be chaired by a former Starehe MP, further strengthening the party’s structure.

In a vibrant display of political branding, DCP introduced two rallying songs—one in Kiswahili and another in English—blending secular and gospel tones to resonate with diverse Kenyan audiences.

The Kiswahili song features lyrics like “Komboa payslip, Okoa Wakenya, Unganisha Kenya!” (Redeem the payslip, Save Kenyans, Unite Kenya!), calling for unity against economic hardship.

Another chant, “Uongozi wa kuaminika, tunaskiza Wakenya!” (Trustworthy leadership, we listen to Kenyans!), underscores the party’s citizen-centric message.

Supporters also sang, “Maisha yangu ni wewe, hata kama sina pesa” (My life is you, even if I have no money), reflecting the party’s populist appeal.

The launch contrasts sharply with the 2021 unveiling of UDA, which emphasized Christian messaging.

Gachagua’s DCP instead blends cultural and political themes to address pressing issues like economic inequality and democratic representation.

Political analysts view the move as a direct challenge to President Ruto’s administration, with Gachagua positioning himself as a unifying figure for disgruntled voters.

As the 2027 election approaches, the DCP’s formation marks a bold pivot for Gachagua, whose fallout with Ruto has fueled his political reinvention.

With a diverse leadership team and a message tailored to Kenya’s economic challenges, the DCP appears poised to reshape the country’s political landscape.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​