Karen Nyamu mocks Gachagua for appealing to diaspora Kenyans to fund Ol Kalou campaign
By Mabonga Makhanu, May 23, 2026Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu has criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following his appeal to Kenyans living in the United Kingdom to help raise funds for the campaign of his preferred candidate, Sammy Ngotho, in the Ol Kalou by-election.
She suggested that seeking financial support from the diaspora for a single constituency race raises serious concerns about the strength and sustainability of the DCP party for citizens.
Questions on political capacity
In her remarks shared through social media on Saturday, May 23, 2026, Nyamu argued that the move reflects potential weaknesses in political organisation. She claimed that if a political formation struggles to independently finance campaigns in just one constituency, it could indicate deeper structural and financial challenges.
“Seeing him abroad begging Kenyans to finance a single by-election in their own perceived stronghold is a major red flag. If they are struggling to move around just one constituency, DCP is a time bomb that will soon crumble under its own weight.”
She further questioned how such a movement would be able to sustain and fund a full-scale general election campaign across the country.
Criticism of campaign strategy
Nyamu also emphasised that successful politics goes beyond public rallies, excitement, and online popularity. According to her, effective political competition requires strong structures, financial sustainability, and the ability to consistently support candidates in different parts of the country.
She implied that reliance on external fundraising could undermine long-term political stability and competitiveness.
Message to Mt Kenya voters
Turning her attention to voters in the Mt Kenya region, Nyamu described the situation as a political warning for those seeking an alternative political home outside the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
She suggested that they may need to reconsider the Jubilee Party as a more stable option, arguing that it has a proven track record of financing candidates at various levels, including governors, senators, members of parliament, and ward representatives during elections.
Ol Kalou fundraiser
While speaking in London on Sunday, May 17, 2026, the DCP leader urged Kenyans living abroad to chip in and bankroll Ngotho to help him manage his campaign.
Gachagua continued by narrating that he had employed the DCP candidate in his office while serving as deputy president, but upon his impeachment, Ngotho was also fired and has since been struggling to meet his needs.