Speaking during a rally in Nyeri on Wednesday, Gachagua said the time had come for DCP to take its place on the national stage, insisting that the party would no longer play a peripheral role in national politics.
“We are done with being spectators. DCP will have a presidential candidate in 2027,” Gachagua declared, drawing loud cheers from supporters.
“We are building a national movement that will offer Kenyans real leadership, not empty promises.”
The former deputy president, whose political profile has remained prominent despite his fallout with the ruling administration, said DCP had grown into a formidable national force capable of mounting a serious presidential challenge.
He pointed to the party’s expanding grassroots structures, increasing membership, and rising popularity in Mount Kenya and beyond as evidence that it was ready for a full-scale national contest.
“Our message has reached every corner of this country. Kenyans are joining DCP because they want a government that listens, respects them, and puts their interests first,” Gachagua said.
Despite confirming that DCP will field its own candidate, Gachagua left room for broader opposition unity, saying talks were ongoing to front one presidential candidate against the incumbent.
However, he emphasized that even in such negotiations, DCP would participate from a position of strength.
Gachagua’s declaration comes amid ongoing legal uncertainties surrounding his eligibility following his impeachment in 2024. But he maintains that his legal battles will not derail his political ambitions.
“Kenyans will decide who leads them. Nobody will intimidate us with threats or technicalities,” he said.
His announcement is expected to intensify competition within the opposition, where several figures have already shown interest in the top seat.
Political analysts say Gachagua’s move is a strategic attempt to consolidate his base early and shape coalition negotiations ahead of the polls.
With campaign season already heating up, Gachagua’s firm stance signals that DCP intends to be a critical player — not a bargaining chip — in the 2027 presidential contest.
