Gachagua's DCP opts for private venue ahead of launch

The much-anticipated Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) launch, scheduled for June 3, has now been moved to the end of the month.

The decision comes after the management of Kasarani abruptly cancelled the initial booking, forcing the Party to seek other means for an alternative launch site.

DCP has accused the government of frustrating its planned official launch.

“The party launch was scheduled for June 3, but it wouldn’t take place because the management of Kasarani Sports Centre cancelled our venue booking with no possibility of a future date,” said Hezron Obaga, DCP Secretary-General, in a statement released after the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held yesterday.

According to the party, DCP had already paid Sh3.7 million to reserve the gymnasium at Kasarani.

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The booking was initially approved on May 21, but was later rescinded last week by Sports Kenya Director-General Gabriel Komora, who cited preparations for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 as the reason for the cancellation.

“We regret to inform you that the venue will not be available due to prior bookings by sports teams. We are also not taking further bookings due to preparations for the upcoming CHAN,” Komora wrote.

DCP Deputy Party leader Cleophas Malala pointed fingers at President William Ruto, accusing the Kenya Kwanza administration of political interference.

“This is a paranoid government. The same President who was once denied access to venues by the previous regime is now doing the same to others,” said Malala.

Speaking after the NEC meeting, Malala confirmed that the party has formed a special committee to scout for a suitable private venue that can accommodate between 40,000 and 50,000 supporters.

“We have set up a committee to look into the issue of capacity because the number of delegates we are inviting is significant,” he said.

The NEC also resolved to ramp up party activities nationwide. This includes the recruitment of interim county coordinators and the establishment of constituency and county offices in regions where they do not yet exist.

It however, warned against opening party offices within the country that have not been approved, citing illegality.