Governor Irungu Kang'ata Finally Joins DCP
Politics Updated: 24 July 2026 17:35 EAT
Photo courtesy: DCP Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua shakes hands with Murang'a County Governor Irungu Kang'ata at his home in Wamunyoro
Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has officially joined former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), ending months of speculation over his political future and handing the opposition outfit one of its most prominent elected leaders ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kang'ata was formally unveiled as a DCP member on Friday, July 24, during a ceremony attended by party leader Rigathi Gachagua and other senior officials. Gachagua welcomed the Murang'a governor, describing his entry into the party as a significant boost to DCP's growing influence in the Mt Kenya region.
The governor's defection comes after he announced earlier this year that he would not seek re-election on the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. At the time, Kang'ata said he was pursuing a new political direction while insisting he would first consult widely with residents and his supporters before announcing his next move.
For several months, Kang'ata maintained close ties with opposition leaders and participated in activities organised under the Linda Mwananchi movement, fuelling speculation that he was preparing to join Gachagua's political camp.
During public appearances in recent months, the governor repeatedly acknowledged DCP's growing popularity in Murang'a but maintained that his priority remained delivering on his development agenda while consulting constituents on his political future.
His official entry into DCP is expected to strengthen the party's presence in the Mt Kenya region, where Gachagua has been working to consolidate support following his split with President William Ruto and the ruling UDA.
Kang'ata becomes one of the highest-ranking elected leaders to join DCP since the party was launched, adding significant political weight to its preparations for the 2027 elections.
The governor was elected Murang'a County's second governor in the 2022 General Election after previously serving as Murang'a Senator. Before joining the Senate, he represented Kiharu Constituency in the National Assembly and also served as Senate Majority Chief Whip.
His political shift comes amid increasing realignments across the country as leaders reposition themselves and political parties intensify recruitment efforts ahead of the next General Election.
Kang'ata has maintained that his decision was guided by consultations with the people of Murang'a and his vision for the county's future, saying he remains focused on completing key development projects while preparing for the 2027 polls.
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FELIX MAKONA
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