Three political party leaders have sharply criticised remarks attributed to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, warning that calls to dissolve established parties undermine constitutional freedoms and political independence.
In a joint statement, Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi, PNU’s Peter Munya and Umoja na Maendeleo Party’s Lenny Kivuti accused Mr Gachagua of overstepping legal and moral boundaries by urging parties to fold and join the Democratic Congress Party (DCP).
The leaders said political parties are autonomous institutions protected under the Constitution and cannot be directed, merged or dissolved through unilateral pronouncements by an individual.
“Every political party is an independent institution established under the Constitution and the laws of Kenya, with its own governance structures,” the statement read.
“Decisions to dissolve or merge can only be made by lawful organs of each respective party.”
They cited Article 38 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right of every Kenyan to form, join and participate in a political party of their choice. According to the leaders, such rights cannot be curtailed by personal ambitions or political pressure.
The trio further argued that Mr Gachagua lacks the authority to determine the future of other parties, terming his remarks both legally untenable and offensive to party members who have invested in building their organisations.
While affirming their commitment to forming alternative leadership, the leaders stressed that political unity must be based on mutual respect, consultation and voluntary cooperation—not coercion or ultimatums.
They also pointed to what they described as contradictions in Mr Gachagua’s approach, noting that he has been engaging elected leaders from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) even as he advocates for the dissolution of other parties.
“If he genuinely believes in political realignment based on the will of the people, then elected leaders should resign and seek fresh mandates through by-elections,” the statement said.
The leaders dismissed claims that Mr Gachagua speaks on behalf of the Mt Kenya region, saying no consensus has been reached granting him such authority.
They noted that previous presidents from the region never sought to impose political uniformity.
They called for restraint and dialogue, warning against divisive rhetoric that could erode democratic gains. “Leadership is earned through service, humility and consensus—not declarations of supremacy,” they said.