Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, welcomed Laikipia West parliamentary aspirant Karanja Ka-waithira into the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), as the party continues to expand its presence ahead of the 2027 elections.

Gachagua made the announcement on his official X account, describing Ka-waithira as a leadership and governance expert who previously contested the Laikipia West seat on a Nark-Kenya ticket.

“Today, I had the pleasure of welcoming Hon. Karanja Ka-waithira to the DCP Party. Karanja Ka-waithira a Leadership and Governance expert, previously vied for the Laikipia West Parliamentary seat on the Nark-Kenya Party and is now joining other DCP aspirants from the constituency,” Gachagua wrote.

He said the party would treat all aspirants fairly as it prepares for nominations across all levels.

“I have assured Mr. Karanja, just as I have reassured our other aspirants, that he is in the right place and that party nominations will be conducted in a free and fair manner at all levels,” he added.

Gachagua further said the party continues to attract new entrants because of its focus on citizens and internal democracy.

“Our party continues to attract a diverse range of aspirants because we believe in the people and are committed to serving the people as they wishes,” he stated.

Ka-waithira has been active in local politics and community engagement in the region. Laikipia West remains a competitive constituency, with agriculture and livestock farming forming the backbone of the local economy. The seat is expected to attract several candidates as political activity increases across the region.

Ka-waithira joins a growing list of politicians aligning with DCP. In recent months, former Ruiru MP Esther Gathogo, senior counsel Nelson Havi, and former Kieni MP Kanini Kega have all linked up with the party.

DCP, formed in May 2025 after Gachagua’s impeachment as deputy president in October 2024, has positioned itself as a reform-driven party. It has also gained ground through by-election wins, including three MCA seats.

Party deputy leader Cleophas Malala has previously stated that DCP does not rely on Political Parties Fund allocations. He said the party depends on membership contributions and donations.

Gachagua has maintained that the party will run open nominations. “We want a process where people choose their leaders without interference,” he said in earlier remarks.

Ka-waithira’s entry adds to DCP’s growing footprint in central Kenya and Rift Valley regions as parties intensify early mobilisation for 2027.