Tension is brewing within the Democracy For The Citizens Party (DCP) in Meru County following abrupt leadership changes that have left members divided and questioning the party’s direction.
In a video widely shared online, angry youths cautioned former Deputy President and DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua against setting foot in Meru until he addresses the controversial changes.
The youths said they woke up to shocking news of a sudden reshuffle in the county branch leadership without prior consultation, a move they termed disrespectful and undemocratic.
The dispute erupted after County Chairperson Timothy Githinji was removed from office and replaced by James Mithika in a decision reportedly made on Thursday evening.
The announcement caught party members off guard, prompting accusations of bias and favoritism within the party’s top ranks.
On Friday morning, the disgruntled faction stormed the DCP offices in Meru town, where they convened a tense meeting demanding answers from both county and national officials.
According to the agitated youths, the leadership shake-up was not only abrupt but also executed without adherence to party procedures.
“We will not allow outsiders to impose leaders on us. If Gachagua does not explain why Githinji was removed without consultation, we shall leave this party and seek a new political home,” one of the youth leaders declared during the meeting.
The growing discontent has sparked fears of possible mass defections that could weaken the party’s grassroots structures in Meru, a region considered strategic for DCP’s political ambitions.
Several members vowed to boycott party activities until the matter is resolved, accusing national leadership of sidelining loyal supporters who had worked tirelessly to strengthen the party at the county level.
The calls for accountability now put Rigathi Gachagua in a difficult position as he seeks to consolidate his influence ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Political observers note that mishandling the situation could dent his image and erode his support base in a region that has previously stood by him.
As the standoff intensifies, all eyes are on Gachagua to see whether he will intervene and quell the growing rebellion in Meru or risk losing a significant share of youthful backing within the DCP party.
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