Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his newly formed political outfit, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), have once again stirred political waters after authorities blocked the party from launching at a national stadium.
This move—seen by some as administrative and by others as tactical—has raised fresh questions about political space, freedom of assembly, and the state of democracy in Kenya.
The DCP had scheduled its grand launch for Tuesday, 3 June 2025, at the Kasarani Indoor Arena, expecting over 50,000 attendees, including delegates, youth groups, party officials, and grassroots mobilisers.
The venue, regarded as one of Kenya’s premier public spaces for major events, had already been booked and paid for—Sh3.7 million, according to party officials.
However, in a sudden twist, Sports Kenya, the government agency managing national sports facilities, revoked the permit. In a letter addressed to the party, Sports Kenya cited the “unavailability of the venue due to prior engagements,” including preparation for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and other sports programs.
According to DCP officials, the venue had been confirmed for use from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 3. The sudden reversal occurred shortly after invitations had been sent out and logistical arrangements were already underway.
A letter from the DCP’s Secretary General, read during the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, revealed that the permit was revoked without prior consultation or dialogue, leaving the party with no immediate alternative venue.
“The Sports Kenya Director-General Pius Metto Komora, in a letter addressed to the party, cited preparations for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in 2025 and the under-18 ARS/FIFA Nations Championship as the reason the venue was unavailable. He also stated that the stadium is reserved for use by sports federations and teams.”
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This development has drawn attention not just because of the cancellation, but due to the perceived political interference. DCP leaders openly accused President William Ruto’s administration of influencing the decision, citing concerns over the momentum Gachagua’s party may be gaining.
“Kenya is an interesting country,” said Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami during the NEC meeting. “When you support the president, public facilities are open to you. But when you begin questioning his leadership, the gates are slammed shut.”
Gachagua, speaking to delegates during the Nairobi meeting, echoed similar sentiments, calling the incident a clear example of government suppression of political alternatives.
“We are not talking about a Kenya where public spaces belong to the ruling elite. This is supposed to be a constitutional democracy. This is not a banana republic,” he said.
Despite the obstacle, DCP is not backing down. Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala announced that the party is reorganising the launch for a later date in June, potentially at a private venue. Plans are also underway to expand party structures in all 47 counties and establish an aspirants’ forum to prepare for the 2027 general elections.
The party will continue engaging citizens through civic forums across the country, with a particular focus on the Finance Bill and other legislative matters. Gachagua also called on his allies, especially those in Mt. Kenya, to hold firm and resist political intimidation.
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