Gachagua vows to attend David Kiaraho’s prayer service despite Ruto’s presence

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has said he will attend the prayer service for the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.

Speaking on Sunday, April 5, during a church service in Gatundu, Gachagua made it clear that no one, including President William Ruto, can stop him or his supporters from attending the event.

His remarks came after Nyandarua Woman Representative Faith Gitau suggested that opposition leaders should stay away because the President will also be present.

Gachagua strongly disagreed with that idea, saying Nyandarua is his home and no one has the right to block him from attending a local event. He stated that although he was removed from government, that does not mean he can be pushed away from his own region.

He also welcomed President Ruto to attend the event but asked him to come with respect, reminding leaders that Nyandarua has a rich history linked to freedom fighters like J.M. Kariuki and Dedan Kimathi.

Gachagua urged residents of Nyandarua County, especially those from Ol Kalou, to attend the prayer service in large numbers. He added that he plans to arrive early, even a day before, to prepare for the event.

Ol Kalou By-Election Ahead

The death of MP David Kiaraho has created a vacant seat in Ol Kalou, and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has already announced plans for a by-election.

Political parties are now preparing for the race, which is expected to be highly competitive. The contest is likely to bring together the United Opposition and the Kenya Kwanza alliance, making it an important political battle in the Mount Kenya region.

Opposition leaders, including Eugene Wamalwa, have said they will work together to support one strong candidate. This strategy follows previous by-elections where opposition parties joined forces to increase their chances of winning.

The upcoming by-election will test Gachagua’s influence in the region, as both sides prepare for a tough contest.