Gachagua Claims UDA Fears Defeat in Ol Kalou By-Election

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that concerns within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party about a potential defeat are driving reports suggesting that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) might cancel the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election.

Gachagua stated that the speculation surrounding the by-election's fate is rooted in UDA's anxiety over losing the seat, which became vacant following the death of Jubilee Party MP David Njuguna Kiaraho on March 29, 2026. The IEBC has scheduled the by-election for July 16, 2026, and Gachagua's comments highlight the political tension surrounding this upcoming vote.

Rigathi Gachagua, known for his role as the former Deputy President of Kenya, has been a prominent figure in Kenyan politics. He has been vocal in his criticism of the UDA's internal dynamics and the implications for the party's electoral prospects. Recently, he has been active in overseeing the nomination process for his own party, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), as it seeks to secure a candidate for the Ol Kalou seat.

The DCP held primaries on May 9, 2026, where Sammy Ngotho, a former aide to Gachagua, won the nomination with 12,957 votes, defeating Paul Waiganjo, who received 4,978 votes. Gachagua had directed all DCP officials and elected leaders to stay away from Ol Kalou during the nominations to ensure a fair selection process. This move reflects the competitive nature of the by-election and the stakes involved for both the DCP and UDA.

#riggyg