Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has ended his tour of the United States earlier than scheduled to focus on the upcoming by-elections in Kenya.
In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, the former Deputy President announced his return, stating that his priority was to support his party as it prepares for the electoral contests.
“I am sorry to cut my trip short; my profound apologies to the organizers and Kenyans I was scheduled to meet. The same has been rescheduled to early next year,” he wrote.
Gachagua added that he would take a brief rest before returning to Kenya and would release his full itinerary in due course.
He also extended his gratitude to the diaspora communities and supporters who welcomed him in various U.S. states, saying he was encouraged by the DCP’s growing presence abroad.
His early return comes ahead of a packed electoral calendar.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has scheduled by-elections for November 27, 2025, ending a lengthy period in which several constituencies and wards remained without elected representatives some for more than two years.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon confirmed that a total of 16 ward by-elections will be held across the country. These include:
- Angata Nanyokie (Samburu)
- Chemundu/Kapng’etuny (Nandi)
- Chewani (Tana River)
- Fafi (Garissa)
- Kariobangi North (Nairobi)
- Kisa East (Kakamega)
- Metkei (Elgeyo Marakwet)
- Mumbuni North (Machakos)
- Narok Town (Narok)
- Purko (Kajiado)
- Tembelio (Uasin Gishu)
- Nyansiongo, Nyamaiya, and Ekerenyo (Nyamira)
- Lake Zone and Nanaam (Turkana)
In addition, voters will head to the polls to fill parliamentary seats in Banissa, Kasipul, Magarini, Malava, Mbeere North, and Ugunja, as well as the Baringo Senate seat and the MCA position for Kabuchai.
According to the IEBC, the official campaign period will run from October 8 to November 24, with daily campaigning allowed between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm.
All political parties and candidates are required to submit the names of their Election Agents by November 11.
The by-elections will use the certified voter register published on June 21, 2022, and are expected to be closely contested, with several high-profile parties, including the DCP, vying for influence.
