Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has declared his intention to contest the 2027 gubernatorial election on the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) ticket, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

The announcement, made on 24 July 2026, follows a political assessment that Mt Kenya's sentiment now aligns with Gachagua's faction rather than President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA).Kang'ata's decision marks a strategic shift after months of distancing himself from UDA, which he left in May 2026.

He previously switched parties ahead of the 2022 elections, moving from Uhuru Kenyatta's camp to Ruto's UDA, which secured his first term as governor.This latest move sees him aligning with the rapidly growing DCP, which has become a key platform for leaders opposing the Ruto administration.

Kang'ata's statement references his earlier analysis predicting Gachagua's influence in the 2027 elections, framing his decision as a vindication of his political foresight.The DCP, led by Gachagua, has gained traction in Mt Kenya after his impeachment from the deputy presidency in October 2024.

Kang'ata emphasized that his departure from UDA was a strategic move, not a personal rift with Ruto, and reiterated his focus on retaining the governorship.His decision underscores the shifting political dynamics in the region, with the DCP emerging as a significant force ahead of the 2027 elections.