The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has been dealt a blow after Magarini parliamentary aspirant Furaha Chengo Ngumbao quit the party, citing frustrations and systemic inefficiencies.
In a letter addressed to the DCP leadership and copied to the Registrar of Political Parties, Ngumbao announced his resignation as a member of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) with immediate effect.
''This decision has not been taken lightly, but I can no longer continue in a role where my efforts are undermined by systemic inefficiencies and a lack of support from key party officials,'' read part of the letter seen by Kenyans.co.ke
Ngumbao accused senior officials within the party, particularly the National Elections Board (NEB) and the Secretary-General, of sidelining aspirants and creating an environment where candidates struggled to operate without guidance or institutional backing.
''The persistent lack of communication, disregard for grassroots concerns, and failure to provide clear directives have created an environment where aspirants like myself are left to navigate critical issues without guidance or support,'' he added.
According to Ngumbao, the absence of timely feedback and opaque decision-making processes had eroded his confidence in the party’s ability to function effectively, further weakening its credibility ahead of the November mini polls and the 2027 elections.
He also pointed out that the marginalisation of NEC members in key deliberations was a major source of discontent, noting that it had compromised his ability to adequately serve his supporters in Magarini.
Despite his grievances, Ngumbao acknowledged the leadership of Rigathi Gachagua, praising him for his dedication and vision. However, he warned that unless reforms were implemented, DCP risked losing its base.
''I hope that future leadership will prioritise transparency, inclusivity, and accountability. Our party’s success depends on the active engagement and trust of its members, and I fear that without meaningful reforms, we risk alienating the very people we aim to serve,'' he stated.
The DCP and other United Opposition parties have had to negotiate the acrid political waters in the weeks leading up to the by-elections on November 27.
The parties have to balance between fronting joint candidates and competing member party candidates.
On September 10, DCP pulled out of contention in three upcoming by-elections, instead choosing to support aspirants from allied opposition parties. The announcement followed a high-level National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Nairobi.
Gachagua said the move was in line with the party's commitment to opposition unity ahead of the 2027 General Elections. The NEC resolved to support the Democratic Party (DP) in the Mbeere North Constituency by-election, with Gachagua acknowledging that the seat had previously been held by the party.
