Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has spoken out about the sudden withdrawal of the Democracy For Citizens Party’s (DCP) candidate from the Banisa parliamentary race

Speaking on Friday, October 3, 2025, Gachagua blamed the aspirant’s withdrawal on intimidation tactics from his former boss.

“We had a very strong candidate in Banisa who was going to be the next member of parliament. William Ruto summoned him, threatened him, and forced him to withdraw from the race,” he stated.

The opposition figurehead added that he took the withdrawal positively, stressing that the capacity to be influenced remains a rare virtue.

“We said it is okay, not every leader has the courage that we have to withstand the torment and intimidation of Ruto. Very few leaders can. I am happy for you who have displayed the courage to join me here today,” he said.

In his past remarks, Mohammed had dismissed reports that he was in talks with the government to join the UDA party.

Elsewhere, allies of DCP in Embu have decried intimidation by security agencies.

No business with govt

Speaking on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, he asserted that he had no business talking to the state, only for him to withdraw from the contest three weeks later.

“There are many speculations, rumours, and videos created that Aden is talking with the government; I have no business talking with the government. I want to represent my people in parliament, and I want to be their voice,” he stated.

His remarks come after the party also unveiled a new candidate to fly the party’s colours in the Magarini seat.

The Skiza Wakenya party settled on Stanley Karisa Kenga days after Furaha Chengo resigned from the party he was to contest for the parliamentary seat with.

“Today, we want to unveil our candidate in DPC who will win the seat. He is Stanley Karisa Kenga. He is the guy who won the last election, and the courts confirmed it. The people of Magarani will once again confirm him as the MP,” he stated.

He urged the people of Magarini to rally behind the party’s choice and deliver the win for the newfound party.

Also Read: Duale laughs at Gachagua after two DCP candidates withdrew from the upcoming by-elections.