The Electoral Commission has warned Kenyans to be cautious about fake and misleading information as the country moves closer to the 2026 and 2027 elections. The commission said false online content could confuse voters and harm democracy.
At the same time, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has responded to speculation about the absence of Cleophas Malala, the Deputy Leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).
Speaking during a radio interview on Sunday, January 18, 2026, Gachagua dismissed claims that Malala had abandoned him or the party.
He said Malala was in Kakamega during the Malala Super Cup and later developed a severe flu. According to Gachagua, Malala officially requested time off to recover.
He described reports of a political fallout as propaganda meant to damage the party.
Gachagua Accuses Ruto’s Camp of Spreading Lies
Gachagua accused President William Ruto’s allies of spreading false stories about DCP leaders. He said claims of defections were exaggerated and politically motivated.
He added that some leaders who left the party were never loyal and were planted as spies. According to him, their departure was expected.
Gachagua insisted that Malala remains his most trusted ally and praised him as hardworking, loyal, and dependable.
Malala’s Silence Sparks Online Debate
Malala has kept a low profile in recent weeks and missed several party events. His absence was especially noticed during the DCP retreat in Mombasa.
The last time Malala and Gachagua appeared together in public was on January 8 during the party tour of Nyeri County.
His continued absence has fueled online debate about possible divisions within the party, but Gachagua has strongly denied this.
DCP Retreat Focuses on 2027 Elections
Gachagua said the three-day retreat in Mombasa was organized to strengthen party unity and prepare for the 2027 General Elections.
He said the retreat focused on reviewing party activities, planning future strategies, and understanding the election calendar.
The meeting came at a difficult time for the party as it faced internal disagreements and loyalty challenges.
Defections Shake the Party
The party suffered a major setback in December when Juja MP George Koimburi defected to President Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance.
Soon after, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, a close ally of Gachagua, pledged support for President Ruto. Kahiga said he would back Ruto’s re-election if development projects in Nyeri were completed.
Grassroots Leaders Voice Frustration
Some DCP grassroots leaders from Nakuru also threatened to defect, saying they were unhappy with Gachagua’s leadership.
Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge accused Gachagua of using intimidation to control opposition politics ahead of the 2027 elections.
These accusations raised concerns about unity within the party.
Electoral Commission Calls for Responsible Sharing
The Electoral Commission reminded Kenyans to verify political information before sharing it online. It warned that fake news and misleading posts could influence voters and damage the electoral process.
The commission urged citizens to rely on official and trusted news sources.
Conclusion
Gachagua maintains that the DCP remains strong and united. He insists that Malala’s absence is due to illness and not political conflict.
As Kenya approaches another election season, the fight against misinformation is becoming just as important as the political campaigns themselves.