DCP Forms Panel to Vet Incoming Political Defectors
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has established a seven-member committee to carefully screen politicians seeking to defect from the United Democratic Alliance to his Democracy for the Citizens Party.
The announcement was made by DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala during media interviews on Thursday. Malala emphasised that the party intends to maintain high standards and will not open its doors indiscriminately to every newcomer.
According to Malala, the vetting process aims to ensure that only individuals whose values and political behaviour align with the party’s principles are admitted. “Our party leader has formed a seven-member committee to vet those defecting from UDA and other parties to our party. We will not allow each and every one to just join DCP; we will scrutinise them properly,” he stated. He stressed that thorough checks would be applied to all prospective members before they are accepted.
Malala made clear that anyone found to have engaged in questionable political conduct would be rejected. He specifically pointed to politicians allegedly connected to the impeachment of party leader Gachagua as examples of individuals who would face particularly close examination. “We will not allow anybody whose values are not good and whose conduct does not align with our party principles to cross over to our outfit,” the deputy party leader added.
While welcoming genuine interest from those wishing to join, Malala said DCP remains selective and expects new members to demonstrate sound political morals consistent with the party’s beliefs. The remarks come amid a noticeable wave of politicians distancing themselves from the ruling party and exploring options within the opposition. Recent high-profile moves have heightened attention on the shifting political landscape.
The formation of the committee signals a deliberate strategy by Gachagua’s party to manage growth carefully rather than absorb large numbers without scrutiny. As more elected leaders continue to reassess their affiliations, the screening process is expected to play a central role in shaping the composition and credibility of DCP in the months ahead.
