Yusuf Hassan quits Uhuru’s Jubilee for DCP as Gachagua camp expands 2027 base
Gachagua was notably absent from an opposition unity event at Windsor where parties signed a pledge ahead of the elections.
NAIROBI, Kenya — Kamkunji MP Yusuf Hassan has defected from Uhuru Kenyatta’s Jubilee Party to join the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) ahead of the 2027 General Election. This move comes as Gachagua’s party, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, expands its political realignment in anticipation of contesting the presidential election. Hassan’s defection highlights the DCP’s growing influence, positioning the party as a vehicle for Gachagua’s ambitions.
The opposition parties are striving to unite and challenge President William Ruto, yet divisions persist regarding who should lead a potential coalition. Gachagua has vehemently rejected the notion of being a “kingmaker,” stating, “Rigathi is not a kingmaker. Gachagua is king.” He dismissed suggestions that his role is merely to remove Ruto and hand power to another individual, asserting, “Many people, including supporters of my colleagues in the United opposition, I have seen them on social media and in public platforms advancing a ridiculous proposition: that his work is to remove William Ruto and give leadership to others.”
Gachagua’s presidential bid is at the heart of the opposition negotiations, even though he has previously indicated a willingness to collaborate with other leaders to form a single candidate. Gachagua is also contesting his impeachment in the Court of Appeal, arguing that his removal from office does not disqualify him from seeking elective office.
Despite the High Court upholding his impeachment in June and awarding him Sh50 million in damages, Gachagua remains committed to pursuing the matter to the Supreme Court if necessary.
The addition of Hassan to the DCP strengthens Gachagua’s political camp, particularly in Nairobi, as they seek to broaden their base beyond traditional supporters. This development intensifies the contest between Gachagua’s DCP and opposition factions allied with Azimio over the direction and leadership of a united opposition. Gachagua maintains that his opposition to Ruto stems from his opposition to his policies, not personal animosity, and asserts his readiness to run for president despite his impeachment.
As opposition parties navigate alliances, the focus remains on whether a unified presidential candidate can emerge and whether Gachagua will emerge as the frontrunner.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
