Speaking during an interview with coastal radio stations, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader said the united opposition had resolved not to front a single candidate, opting instead for what he termed “friendly fire” among its affiliate parties.
According to Gachagua, the decision was informed by the belief that their main rival, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), poses little threat in the mini-poll.
“We have no opposition in Ol Kalou. That is why each party within the united opposition will field a candidate and compete among ourselves. It will be friendly fire,” he said.
The remarks come amid growing tensions between coalition partners, particularly the Jubilee Party and DCP, over who should carry the opposition flag in the by-election.
Jubilee has insisted that the seat rightfully belongs to the party, noting that the late MP David Kiaraho, whose death created the vacancy, was elected on its ticket.
In a statement signed by Secretary General Montalel Ole Kenta, the party argued that it should be allowed to defend the seat.
The party also pointed to past by-elections where it stepped aside in favour of coalition partners, including in Mbeere North and Emurua Dikirr, saying it is now time for reciprocity.
However, DCP Secretary General Hezron Obaga has dismissed Jubilee’s demands, maintaining that his party is fully prepared to contest and will not уступ its position.
The party also pointed to past by-elections where it stepped aside in favour of coalition partners, including in Mbeere North and Emurua Dikirr, saying it is now time for reciprocity.
However, DCP Secretary General Hezron Obaga has dismissed Jubilee’s demands, maintaining that his party is fully prepared to contest and will not уступ its position.
He accused Jubilee of undermining previous joint efforts, citing instances where the party allegedly fielded candidates despite earlier agreements.
Obaga argued that DCP is not a junior partner in the coalition and will actively compete in the Ol Kalou race if necessary.
The standoff underscores widening cracks within the opposition, even as leaders publicly project unity.
Obaga argued that DCP is not a junior partner in the coalition and will actively compete in the Ol Kalou race if necessary.
The standoff underscores widening cracks within the opposition, even as leaders publicly project unity.
Analysts say the decision to allow multiple candidates could test the coalition’s strength, particularly if it leads to vote splitting.
Despite the differences, Gachagua expressed confidence that the competition would remain constructive and would not weaken the broader opposition agenda.
Despite the differences, Gachagua expressed confidence that the competition would remain constructive and would not weaken the broader opposition agenda.
He added that the approach would give voters a wider choice while allowing parties to measure their individual strengths ahead of future elections.
The DCP has already attracted significant interest ahead of its primaries, with several aspirants eyeing the party ticket.
The DCP has already attracted significant interest ahead of its primaries, with several aspirants eyeing the party ticket.
Gachagua assured supporters that the nominations will be conducted in a free and fair manner to identify the strongest candidate.
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