Kimani Ichung’wah has shut the door on any move to Rigathi Gachagua’s Democratic for Citizens Party (DCP), insisting that he will stick with political choices based on what he believes is right rather than where the political winds are blowing.
The National Assembly Majority Leader made the remarks during an interview on Wednesday, August 12, as a number of politicians continue to shift their political alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Ichung’wah dismissed DCP as a small political outfit and said he had no intention of becoming a member of the party associated with Gachagua.
“I can never, ever, over my dead body, join that small party (DCP). I take decisions based on conviction and not political convenience,” he stated.
The Kikuyu MP said his position was also informed by his belief in the broad-based government, which he considers the right platform to steer the country forward.
“I have a very strong conviction that the broad-based government is what will move this country forward,” Ichung’wah added.
He also sought to play down the growing number of politicians moving away from UDA and joining or aligning themselves with DCP.
According to Ichung’wah, the movement should not cause alarm within the ruling camp, likening the political changes to transfers witnessed in football.
“There is no reason for anybody to get worried. It is that transfer season just like in football. Irungu Kanga’ta in seven days moved about three political formations; I don’t know where he will end up in one year. Badilisha was always on that side, and therefore it is no surprise,” Ichung’wah stated.
Despite the defections, Ichung’wah said the broad-based government remains united and capable of mounting a strong campaign in the next election.
“We have a very solid formation in the broad-based government and are very confident that we will win the 2027 General Election,” he added.
His comments followed the decision by Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe to leave UDA.
Kagombe announced his exit on Wednesday, saying he had taken the step after listening to the views of residents in Gatundu South.
The legislator said his constituents had voiced their dissatisfaction with the current administration and that, as their elected representative, he had to take their concerns seriously.
“I am a representative of the people of Gatundu South, and they have said, ‘Listen, we don't want that person, we don't want this government.’
“I asked myself, ' Why would I lose a seat or fail to represent what the people are saying?” Kagombe posed.
The developments highlight the political realignments taking place as parties and politicians position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.