Speaking during TV47Breakfast, Mbae claimed that winning the Ol Kalou and Emurua Dikirr by-elections would significantly shift Kenya’s political landscape and strengthen DCP’s growing influence in both the Mt. Kenya and Rift Valley regions.
“When we win the Ol Kalou by-election, 70% of Mt. Kenya politics will be settled, and we will just be waiting for the 2027 elections. Additionally, when we win the Emurua Dikirr by-election, it will mean two things: a big influx of aspirants from Rift Valley and the fear of Ruto stealing elections will be gone,” Mbae stated.
His remarks underscore DCP’s strategy of using the by-elections as a political litmus test against President William Ruto and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The Emurua Dikirr by-election has become one of the most closely watched political contests in the country, largely because it is being viewed as a direct face-off between Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whose allies have been aggressively campaigning under the DCP banner.
Mbae’s comments also reflect the opposition camp’s attempt to position DCP as an emerging political force capable of attracting leaders and aspirants dissatisfied with UDA’s dominance, particularly in regions traditionally considered strongholds of the ruling party.
However, UDA leaders have dismissed the claims, insisting the party remains firmly in control of both Mt. Kenya and Rift Valley politics.
The by-election results are expected to offer a clearer indication of the shifting political mood as the country gradually heads toward the 2027 polls.