From a humble village in Nyeri to the heart of Kenya’s political arena, Rigathi Gachagua has built a reputation as a resilient and influential leader.
Known for his deep roots in the country’s independence history and his skill in grassroots mobilisation, Gachagua has now taken a bold step by launching a new political party, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). This article delves into his background and political journey:
Early Life and Education
Rigathi Gachagua was born in 1965 in Hiriga village, Nyeri County, into a family deeply rooted in Kenya’s fight for independence. Both his parents were Mau Mau fighters, a legacy he proudly acknowledges, often declaring, 'Mimi ni Mtoto wa Mau Mau.'
Gachagua started school at Kabiruini Primary and later attended Kianyaga High School. In 1985, he joined the University of Nairobi, where he graduated in 1988 with a degree in Political Science and Literature. During his university years, he was active in student leadership, serving as chairman of the Literature Students Association and leading the Nyeri District University Students Association.
Career in Public Service
After graduating, Gachagua briefly worked in the Ministry of Home Affairs before joining the Administration Police in 1990, where he received paramilitary training.
He served as a District Officer in several parts of the country, including Kakamega and Laikipia. Later, he furthered his education and earned an advanced diploma in Public Administration.
Personal Assistant to Uhuru Kenyatta
Between 2001 and 2006, Gachagua worked as the Personal Assistant to Uhuru Kenyatta, who was then Minister for Local Government and later opposition leader. In this role, he managed Kenyatta’s schedule and daily activities, gaining important experience in politics.
Entry into Politics and Role in the 2022 Presidential Election
In 2017, Gachagua won the Mathira Constituency parliamentary seat. As a Member of Parliament (MP), he was active in debates and focused on developing his constituency. Beyond his role in Parliament, he became well known for his work mobilising support at the grassroots level across central Kenya.
This grassroots influence was important in the 2022 presidential election, helping his political ally William Ruto secure strong support in the region. His work in connecting with voters and building local networks made him a key figure in the campaign, which led to his selection as Ruto’s running mate.
Deputy Presidency and Impeachment
Gachagua was sworn in as Kenya’s Deputy President in September 2022. However, just over two years later, in October 2024, he was impeached by Parliament on charges including abuse of office and inciting ethnic tensions. The Senate confirmed the impeachment, leading to his removal from office.
Gachagua has since appealed his impeachment and recently got a reprieve after the Court of Appeal ruled that Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu had no powers to appoint a bench of judges to hear petitions challenging his removal.
Justices Daniel Musinga, Mumbi Ngugi, and Francis Tuiyott stated that the Constitution reserves the duty to empanel a bench for the Chief Justice and that assigning judges was not one of the administrative duties that could be allocated or passed over to the Deputy Chief Justice.
Post-Impeachment: Political Engagement and Plans
After his impeachment, Gachagua remained politically active. He met with other leaders and continued to engage with his supporters. He held meetings at his Wamunyoro home in Nyeri County where he consulted with other senior leaders such as Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Martha Karua, and Fred Matiang'i among others. He promised to start a new political party that would focus on the needs of ordinary Kenyans and give them a stronger voice in politics.
Launch of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP)
On 15 May 2025, Gachagua officially launched the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) in Nairobi. The party aims to be a grassroots organisation that listens to and acts on the concerns of everyday Kenyans.
Its logo, featuring a listening ear, and the slogan "Skiza Wakenya" (Listen to Kenyans) highlight this focus. Gachagua became the party leader, with Cleophas Malala appointed as interim deputy leader.
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