Former Murang’a gubernatorial candidate Jamleck Kamau has withdrawn from active politics and exited the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), ending a year-long association that saw him play a central role in building the party’s presence in the county.
In a statement issued on January 22, 2026, Jamleck announced that he was taking a break from active politics, thanking his supporters and particularly acknowledging Gen Z for their unwavering backing. While the message was calm and measured, events preceding his decision point to deep frustrations within the party’s leadership.
”Due to reasons beyond my control I have ,today 22nd Jan 2026 ,decided to take a break from active politics. I want to specifically thank all my supporters and assure you that I will continue engaging and consulting you as we move forward. . The backbone of our society, the Gen Z’s , thank you so much for the support you’ve accorded me and I will never tire to tell you,—- stand firm , fair and with principles,” he said.
Jamleck was one of DCP’s earliest and most visible gubernatorial hopefuls in Murang’a. During the party’s formative stage, he bankrolled meetings, mobilised supporters, and helped establish party structures across the county. Sources indicate that he consistently financed activities at a time when the party had limited resources, often placing himself in risky situations during politically charged engagements.
The fallout reportedly began in December after party leader Rigathi Gachagua communicated new financial conditions to aspiring governors.
According to multiple aspirants, Gachagua demanded monthly contributions of Kshs. 1 million and an upfront payment of Kshs. 5 million, with the promise of a direct ticket and no nominations. He allegedly argued that winning a governorship in Mt Kenya costs at least Kshs. 100 million, and that the party’s charges were only 20 percent of that amount in exchange for full campaign support.
Jamleck informed the party that, despite his continued financial support, he could not raise the Kshs. 5 million lump sum within the given timeframe due to the difficult economic climate.
Over the same weekend, Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata reportedly met Gachagua in Mombasa and paid the Kshs. 5 million, pledging to bankroll party activities in the county and facilitate the party leader’s movements. In return, Kang’ata was allegedly guaranteed direct support for the gubernatorial ticket.
On Tuesday night, Jamleck was informed that DCP would back Kang’ata. He was instead offered the option of contesting for the Senate seat or waiting for a possible Cabinet appointment should DCP join a future government.
Feeling sidelined and betrayed by what he viewed as a money-driven decision, Jamleck opted to withdraw from active politics altogether. His departure adds to growing criticism of DCP, with several aspirants accusing the party leadership of imposing crippling financial demands that are driving committed candidates away.
