Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of trying to intimidate her into joining his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP). She made the claims in a social media post on January 5, 2026, saying Gachagua, nicknamed Wamunyoro, uses arrogance and insults to pressure leaders.
Wamuchomba wrote that the tactics remind her of past incidents. She said similar pressure happened when Gachagua was deputy president and she opposed the 2023 Finance Bill. “God deflated him painfully,” she added, referring to his impeachment. Now, she says, he pushes for everyone in Mt Kenya to join DCP, calling it a regional party.
She questioned his role in the party. “From ORPP records, he’s not even an official, let alone a party leader,” Wamuchomba posted. She mocked DCP’s ear symbol, calling it the “Masikio party”. She made clear she stays in UDA until 2027.
The post spread quickly online. Many saw it as part of growing tensions in Mt Kenya politics. Gachagua launched DCP after his removal from office in late 2024. He aims to rally the region ahead of future elections. Some leaders joined, but others, like Wamuchomba, distanced themselves.
Wamuchomba once supported Gachagua strongly. She backed him during impeachment fights. Lately, she criticises his approach, saying it relies on coercion. She mentioned Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa as part of efforts to demean opposing leaders.
No direct response has come from Gachagua’s side yet. His team focuses on building DCP membership. The party held events to recruit in central Kenya.
Mt Kenya remains key for national politics. Splits between UDA loyalists and Gachagua’s group continue. Leaders navigate carefully to keep influence.
Wamuchomba speaks out often on national issues. She opposed certain taxes and pushed for better representation. Her stand here fits that pattern.
Some online comments back her for resisting pressure. Others defend Gachagua, saying he unites the region. Debate stays active on platforms.
Political parties in Kenya see shifts as 2027 nears. Defections and new outfits test loyalties.
Wamuchomba challenged DCP allies to resign from UDA seats and seek fresh mandates on the new ticket. It tests the party’s strength at the grassroots.
For now, her post highlights personal and regional divides. Many will watch if more leaders speak out.
The accusation adds to ongoing talk about party formation and ethics. Officials register parties strictly through ORPP.
As the year starts, Mt Kenya dynamics draw attention. Alliances could shape coming campaigns. Wamuchomba’s firm position shows independent voices persist. She vows no intimidation will sway her.
