Speaking in Nairobi on Tuesday, August 25, Gachagua said the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), Linda Mwananchi Movement and Wiper Party were steadily gaining influence across the city.
He argued that the growing popularity of the three outfits was taking away political space previously occupied by established parties, particularly the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Gachagua described ODM as an “empty shell,” suggesting that the party had lost much of the influence it enjoyed in Nairobi in previous election cycles.
His remarks came as DCP stepped up its grassroots mobilisation efforts in the capital as part of a broader strategy to establish itself as a major political force ahead of 2027.
The former deputy president’s claims were reinforced by a fresh political defection in Nairobi. Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan left the Jubilee Party and joined DCP, marking a significant addition to Gachagua’s camp.
The move followed reports that 11 Jubilee constituency chairpersons in Nairobi had also defected to DCP.
The developments have strengthened Gachagua’s efforts to expand DCP’s grassroots network in the capital.
However, ODM’s parliamentary presence suggests that the party remains a significant force despite the former deputy president’s assessment.
ODM currently holds eight of Nairobi’s 17 parliamentary seats, while DCP has six MPs, demonstrating that the political contest between the two camps remains relatively competitive.
Meanwhile, Linda Mwananchi, associated with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, has intensified its grassroots mobilisation, seeking to expand its support among city residents.
Wiper, led by Kalonzo Musyoka, has likewise stepped up its nationwide activities through a campaign caravan designed to strengthen grassroots structures.
The developments come amid efforts by opposition parties to coordinate their strategies ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.
Although opposition leaders have reportedly agreed in principle to support a single presidential candidate, competition for parliamentary and county positions is expected to remain intense.
With the election still months away, Nairobi’s political alliances could undergo further changes, potentially making the capital one of the most closely watched battlegrounds in 2027.