The much-anticipated launch of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP)—a political outfit linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua—has been postponed following a venue dispute with Sports Kenya, which manages the Kasarani Indoor Arena.
The party had planned to unveil itself on June 3, 2025, at the facility. However, Sports Kenya informed the party that the venue had already been booked by a sports team for the same date. In a letter addressed to the party, Gabriel Komora, the Acting Director General of Sports Kenya, cited prior bookings and preparation for the upcoming 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as reasons for the venue’s unavailability.
“We regret to inform you that the venue will not be available due to prior bookings by a sports team,” read part of the statement.
DCP has condemned the cancellation, claiming the move was politically motivated. In a statement shared on social media, DCP Secretary General Hezron Obaga accused the government of attempting to sabotage the launch.
“It is unfortunate that aggression towards our party is reaching this level of cancellation of the venue for the launch,” Obaga said, adding that DCP is now seeking an alternative private venue.
The party also raised concerns about escalating harassment from state agencies, alleging that DCP officials faced intimidation and disruptions during earlier events, including a May 15 meeting at its headquarters and a May 24 gathering in Kakamega.
“Our deputy party leader and members of our party were harassed by police and other security agencies,” Obaga claimed.
The party had initially sought to book the venue for June 4, but was advised by Sports Kenya to consider an earlier date. DCP says it complied and received an invoice of Sh3.7 million for June 3—raising further questions about why the booking was later revoked.
This incident comes amid rising political tensions between Gachagua and President William Ruto, with the former DP increasingly charting an independent political path, especially within the Mt. Kenya region.
Despite the setback, DCP maintains that the launch will proceed soon.
“We will announce a new date and venue in due course. This journey cannot be stopped by intimidation,” said Obaga.
Political observers are closely watching the party’s next steps, as its emergence could significantly shift the balance of power ahead of the 2027 general election.
