The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) has officially referred all internal disputes to its Internal Disputes Resolution Committee, as tensions escalate between two emerging factions within the party leadership.
The rift has reportedly split the party into liberal and conservative camps. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, serving as the party’s Deputy Party Leader, is said to lead a liberal faction advocating for a rebranding of DAP-K into a nationally competitive outfit. Meanwhile, party leader Eugene Wamalwa is steering a more conservative bloc that seeks to preserve the party’s current identity and direction.
Speaking during a press conference on Friday, DAP-K Secretary General Dr. Eseli Simiyu confirmed the receipt of several petitions calling for the removal of top party officials, including both Natembeya and Wamalwa. He emphasized that the party’s internal dispute resolution mechanism would handle the complaints objectively and transparently.
“We want to assure our members and supporters that all issues raised are being taken seriously and will be addressed within the party’s democratic framework,” Simiyu said.
Eugene Wamalwa, addressing the media separately, urged members to remain calm and trust the party’s internal processes. “Msiwe na wasiwasi, chama iko imara,” he said, reassuring supporters that the party remains strong and united despite the emerging tensions.
“I don’t feel threatened in any way. This is a democratic party. There’s nothing we can’t handle,” Wamalwa added.
Amid the internal wrangles, Wamalwa also confirmed that DAP-K will field candidates in the upcoming Malava and Ugunja by-elections, signaling the party’s intent to remain politically active and competitive despite ongoing leadership challenges.
Written By Rodney Mbua
