Gachagua Applauds DCP’s Strong Showing in Magarini, Announces Coast Tour to Strengthen Party Presence
After the announcement of the results, Kenga and his supporters congratulated Kombe, urging unity and collaboration for the benefit of the community.
DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua during a past rally Photo/Courtsesy
By Ruth Sang
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua lauded Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) candidate Stanley Karissa Kenga’s performance in the Magarini by-election, terming the outcome a major step forward for the young party in the Coast Region.
Gachagua hailed Kenga for securing an impressive second position despite the party having no established political structures in Magarini or the wider Coast belt. He said the showing exceeded expectations and signalled the party’s potential to grow and make meaningful inroads ahead of future elections.
“Congratulations, Stanley Karissa Kenga, for an outstanding performance. For a party with no previous presence in the Coast Region, clinching a credible second place is a significant achievement,” Gachagua said.
He announced that the results were a gateway to wider expansion, unveiling plans to personally spend part of the holiday season at the Coast. He promised to use the visit to scout for potential aspirants, solidify grassroots networks, and oversee the setting up of DCP offices to consolidate the party’s presence.
“This gives us a solid entry into the Coast. I will be in the region over the holiday period to meet aspiring leaders and roll out party offices. We are extremely proud of Stanley and the momentum he has created,” he noted.
The just-concluded Magarini by-election has placed DCP as an emerging force in Kenya’s political arena. Stanley Kenga emerged second after Orange Democratic Movement candidate Harrison Kombe, who won the seat with 17,909 votes. Kenga managed to garner 8,907 votes, a good showing since it is a newly formed party with little presence in the locality.
The by-election organised after the seat felt vacant following the death of the former MP, recorded about 45 percent voter turnout. Though moderate, it reflected prevailing concerns over voter fatigue and logistical limitations in some parts of the constituency. After the announcement of the results, Kenga and his supporters congratulated Kombe, urging unity and collaboration for the benefit of the community.
Beyond Magarini, Gachagua celebrated the victories of three DCP candidates who gained ward seats in Narok Township, Kariobangi North, and Kisa East. He emphasized that these successes mark a major milestone for the relatively new party, demonstrating its growing appeal at the grassroots level.
“I congratulate Douglas Masikonde, David Warui, and Dickson Okwiri Aduda for their victories on behalf of the DCP leadership. These wins show the trust that communities have placed in our emerging leadership, he said.
Gachagua attributed his party’s growing dominance to candidates who sustained frequent interaction with the people in their constituencies during their electioneering. He called upon all aspirants intending to vie on the DCP ticket to do more at the grassroots level.
He added: “I encourage those seeking to run under our banner to stay connected with the electorate. These early wins are inspiring and signal a bright future for the party.” With increased momentum and a revised strategic focus, DCP now seems set to cement its place within Kenya’s emerging political landscape.
