The Democratic Citizens Party (DCP) has thrown its weight behind Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji as its preferred candidate for Embu governor in the 2027 general election, setting the stage for a fierce political showdown.

Speaking after a closed-door meeting in Embu town on Saturday, June 21, 2025, a group of DCP-affiliated aspirants, led by former Runyenjes Central MCA Steve Simba, declared Mukunji as the party’s best bet to dethrone Governor Cecily Mbarire. They praised the youthful legislator for his boldness and political grit, saying he had proven himself as a fearless leader.

“Mukunji stood firm when others bowed. He defied all odds to reject last year’s controversial Finance Bill and resisted pressure from his own party to turn against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.T hat kind of courage is what Embu needs to rise from mismanagement.”Simba said.

Simba accused the current county leadership of failing to prudently manage resources despite billions received annually from the national government. He said Mukunji’s record in running the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in Manyatta was proof he could handle bigger responsibilities.

“Mukunji has shown he can speak for the people and manage public funds with transparency. If he can run CDF efficiently, why can’t he manage the county?” Simba posed.

Backing the endorsement, Embu senatorial hopeful Mukami Mbogo said Mukunji represents the face of Gen Z leadership, describing the coming elections as a generational shift.

“Youths have suffered under both national and county leadership. The next election is our moment. Mukunji gives us hope,” she said, adding that the DCP is the party of change that will secure and protect the people’s vote.”

If Mukunji, currently serving his first term as MP under UDA, secures the DCP ticket, he will likely face stiff competition from Governor Mbarire, who hails from Runyenjes, the second vote-rich constituency.

Former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti, from Mbeere North, has also declared interest in the seat under his Devolution Empowerment party, intensifying the battle.

Manyatta, Mukunji’s political backyard, is the vote-richest constituency in Embu with over 100,000 registered voters, making his endorsement a significant development in Embu’s 2027 race.

The leaders also demanded government compensation for victims of last year’s Gen Z protests and vowed to support the upcoming June 25th demonstrations. They urged police to uphold constitutional freedoms and human rights during the protests.