A simmering dispute over whether to admit defectors from President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is exposing the first major cracks within former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), pitting the party leader against some of his closest allies and aspiring candidates.

The row centres on Mr Gachagua's recent shift from his hardline position that politicians who remained loyal to President Ruto after his impeachment should never be trusted again, to a more conciliatory stance that they should be allowed to join DCP, provided they compete fairly in party primaries.

The proposal, however, has sparked resistance from elected leaders, party officials and aspirants, many of whom insist that former UDA loyalists should remain locked out of the party.

The disagreement comes at a delicate moment for Mr Gachagua, who is seeking to transform himself from a regional political kingpin into a national opposition figure ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua speaks to the media at the party offices in Nairobi on July 10, 2026.

Photo credit: Bonface Bogita | Nation Media Group

While Gachagua’s allies argue that opening the party to defectors could dilute the sacrifices made by those who stood with him after his October 2024 impeachment, critics say shutting the door would reinforce accusations by President Ruto that he is pursuing divisive politics.

Speaking to the Nation on July 5, Mr Gachagua defended his new position, saying the Constitution does not allow political discrimination and that all Kenyans should have the opportunity to join the party.

“The DCP think tank believes this is the most appropriate position. Those seeking to join us should be welcomed, but they must face party primaries so members can decide who carries our flag,” Mr Gachagua said.

He accused President Ruto of attempting to portray him as vindictive by challenging him publicly to reject UDA defectors.

“As party leader, I am being trapped into issuing a blanket condemnation against UDA members. Even President Ruto has made public declarations intended to set me up politically,