The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP), linked to former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi, has officially aligned with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political faction in a bid to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
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Though the party had earlier distanced itself from any political alliance, including Kenya Kwanza, it announced during its National Delegates Conference in Embu on June 16, 2025, that it will now work with opposition forces to ensure Ruto serves only one term.
DEP National Chairman Lenny Kivuti said the party was responding to the will of ordinary Kenyans and would support a popular movement without merging with any single party.
“We’re aligning with the people’s wave but avoiding past coalition mistakes,” Kivuti noted, adding that DEP would cooperate with opposition leaders like Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi, Fred Matiang’i, and Martha Karua to “liberate the country from oppression.”
Citing rising extrajudicial killings, a worsening economy, and unmet government promises, Kivuti declared DEP’s intent to campaign against the current administration ahead of 2027.
The party also plans to field candidates for all elective posts in Embu and other counties, with a strong focus on engaging Generation Z and advocating for the rights of women, people with disabilities, and other marginalized groups.
During the conference, DEP endorsed Muminji Ward MCA Newton Kariuki as its preferred candidate for the Mbeere North parliamentary seat. Kariuki will contest on a Democratic Party (DP) ticket, which DEP described as a friendly partner.
DEP party leader Justin Muturi attended the event, although Kiraitu Murungi was absent.
