Following the defection of Juja MP George Koimburi from Rigathi Gachagua's Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), cracks are appearing within the former Deputy President’s political camp.
Koimburi cited “internal betrayal” and “commandership” within DCP as key reasons for his exit, claiming these internal issues allowed local rivals to gain an advantage in his constituency.
Koimburi’s departure is just the tip of the iceberg. Several prominent MPs and allies are reportedly reconsidering their loyalty to Gachagua.
Among those who have already abandoned him are Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, Maragua MP Mary Wamaua, Kangema MP Peter Irungu, former Nyeri Town MP and strategist Ngunjiri Wambugu, and former Bahati MP Kimani Ngunjiri. Sources close to the party say that more defections are likely as the 2027 General Election approaches.
Insiders indicate that some MPs have been actively engaging their colleagues within DCP, encouraging them to leave the party.
Those reportedly weighing their options include a close ally from Murang’a County, a key figure from Western Kenya, and a frontline defender from Mount Kenya East. These developments suggest that Gachagua’s hold on the party may weaken significantly if the trend continues.
Political analysts suggest the defections could seriously undermine Gachagua’s influence, particularly in areas where his allies were critical in maintaining party cohesion.
The move also highlights growing frustrations among politicians who feel sidelined or overlooked within the party structure.
With the 2027 elections looming, Gachagua’s camp faces a critical test. If the defections continue, the DCP risks losing both its parliamentary representation and credibility among voters, potentially reshaping alliances in the coming months.
Party insiders admit that efforts to patch internal disputes may not be enough to retain key figures, leaving the former Deputy President to recalibrate his strategy ahead of a crucial electoral cycle.
The unfolding exodus underscores a broader trend in Kenyan politics, where party loyalty often shifts in response to internal disputes, personal ambitions, and strategic calculations ahead of national elections.
Gachagua’s ability to manage these defections will determine whether he can maintain a cohesive political base or face a fragmented camp.
