Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) deputy party leader Cleophas Malala has declared former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as President William Ruto’s strongest challenger ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Malala made the remarks on Sunday, May 3, 2026, after a church service at PCEA Illasit Church in Kajiado South, Kajiado County, where Gachagua was among the key leaders in attendance.

“Kutoa Ruto inahitaji mwanaume mwenye anamuelewa na amefanya kazi na yeye. Tukiangalia vizuri, na mimi nimefanya kazi kama SG UDA, huyo ni Gachagua,” Malala stated.

He urged Kajiado residents to back Gachagua, saying his experience working closely with the president places him in a strategic position to challenge the incumbent.

Gachagua signals readiness for 2027 bid

At the same event, Gachagua revealed that members of DCP have urged him to contest the presidency in 2027. “Wanachama wa DCP wamenihimiza kuwania urais mwaka wa 2027, na niko tayari kwa hilo,” he said.

He, however, sought to ease concerns about possible divisions within the opposition, stating that consultations are ongoing to ensure a united front. Gachagua said the opposition would field a single candidate against Ruto and pledged to support whoever is agreed upon if he is not selected.

“Nataka watu wa Kajiado mnipatie nafasi niwe rais wa sita… Hii Kajiado ni DCP zone,” he declared. He also described Kajiado as a stronghold for the party, with Malala reaffirming the region’s political alignment with DCP.

Defense of Uhuru and policy comparisons

Gachagua used the platform to defend retired President Uhuru Kenyatta against criticism from Kenya Kwanza leaders. He said retirement does not limit a former head of state from expressing opinions on national matters.

“The former president must be respected. He may have retired from the presidency, but his mind is not retired,” Gachagua said.

He contrasted the implementation of programmes such as Linda Mama and Edu Afya during Kenyatta’s tenure with current challenges, pointing to what he termed as differences in execution.

Youth politics and emerging alignments

Malala also revisited his push for youth representation, referencing his April 11, 2026, launch of the DCP Youth League, where he advocated reserving all 1,450 MCA seats for individuals under 35.

He said the proposal is aimed at creating a leadership pipeline for young people. His son, Leon Major Malala, has declared interest in an MP seat in 2027, citing concerns over national leadership.