However, the absence of Cleophas Malala the man widely seen as the bridge to Western Kenya has created a narrative of fragmentation.
Gachagua spent much of the weekend dismissing reports that Malala is defecting back to UDA, insisting that the former senator is merely "recuperating" after his Super Cup tournament.
Despite these assurances, insiders note that Malala’s social media channels, which usually broadcast Gachagua’s every move, have remained uncharacteristically silent.
In his address to Coast residents, Gachagua attempted to pivot the conversation toward regional grievances. He promised that a DCP government would purchase land from absentee landlords to resettle squatters and launch a "merciless" war on drug traffickers—a direct challenge to the influence of CS Hassan Joho and the current administration.
By pitching camp in Mombasa with over 20 MPs, Gachagua is signaling that he no longer sees himself as a "regional kingpin" of the Mountain but as a national contender capable of poaching votes from traditional ODM and UDA strongholds.
The "Propaganda War" with State House has reached a fever pitch. Gachagua has openly admitted that his party was infiltrated by "Ruto spies" who have been leaking strategies to the government. He characterized recent high-profile defections (such as Juja MP George Koimburi) as a "necessary cleaning" of the party.
By branding those who leave as "moles returning home," Gachagua is attempting to turn a sign of weakness into a narrative of ideological purity, though the loss of key Mount Kenya allies like Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga suggests the "Mountain" is becoming increasingly slippery.
Gachagua’s recent appearance at the burial of John Muhia in Kipipiri served as a precursor to this Coastal offensive. At the funeral, he delivered a stinging rebuke of President Ruto, accusing the administration of "administrative harassment" and "staging attacks" to discredit the opposition.
His use of a helmet and bulletproof vest at recent rallies has become a controversial symbol; while critics call it "political theater," Gachagua uses it to argue that the state is actively trying to "eliminate" the only leader standing between the people and a "dictatorial merger" of UDA and ODM.
Ultimately, the January 19, 2026 status of the DCP is a party at a crossroads. While Gachagua is successfully building a "Coalition of the Disillusioned" with Kalonzo Musyoka, his own internal structure is fraying.
If Malala does not return to the fold this Monday as promised, the "Western Pillar" of Gachagua’s strategy will be severely compromised.
As the United Opposition moves toward its March deadline for naming a flagbearer, Gachagua’s ability to prove that his party is "intact" will determine whether he leads the ticket or is relegated to a junior partner in Kalonzo’s "Equality Alliance."
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