DCP forms 7-member committee to vet UDA defectors, Malaala says

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has established a seven-member committee to evaluate politicians transitioning from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), according to Cleophas Malala, the party’s deputy leader. Speaking in an interview on Thursday, August 13, 2026, Malala clarified that the DCP would reject individuals whose values and political behavior do not conform to the party's principles.

He asserted, "Our party leader has formed a seven-member committee to vet those defecting from UDA and other parties to our party. We will not allow each and every one to just join DCP; we will scrutinise them properly." Malala added that despite numerous politicians departing UDA for the opposition, the DCP would not welcome everyone without rigorous assessment.

He specified that those found to have engaged in questionable political conduct would be denied membership, citing examples of individuals allegedly involved in the impeachment of Gachagua. As politicians from UDA distance themselves from the ruling party, Malala welcomed potential entrants to the Gachagua-led party, emphasizing that the DCP seeks individuals with strong political morals and values.

The recent defection of Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe, who accused the Ruto administration of failing to fulfill promises, exemplifies this trend. Kagombe's departure was prompted by mounting dissatisfaction with government policies and treatment of UDA MPs from the Mount Kenya region. Lamu Woman Representative Muthoni Marubu, who changed allegiance from an independent ticket to the ruling party, also plans to reveal her political stance soon.

Meanwhile, Gachagua has issued a deadline for politicians from the Mount Kenya region, affiliated with President William Ruto, to join the opposition by December. Failure to do so may result in their exclusion from the DCP, as he believes they cannot remain in the government and then abandon it at the last minute when circumstances change.

Gachagua has been actively visiting constituencies in the region, campaigning against politicians who supported UDA candidates, including attending to Kinangop, Laikipia East, and Kiambaa Constituencies. He is scheduled to visit Nakuru County and return to Embu County to confront UDA Chairperson and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire.