Purity Ngirici, former Kenya Seeds CEO and ex-Kirinyaga Woman Representative, has officially aligned herself with the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) after parting ways with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

On August 12, 2026, Ngirici announced her new political allegiance via social media, declaring, “The chama is DCP.” She was also present alongside former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other DCP leaders during the State of Ruto’s Administration address at the party headquarters on August 11, visibly supporting the party.

Political Realignment and Background

Ngirici’s shift to DCP follows a fallout with the current government, which led to her removal from the Kenya Seed board. Prior to officially joining DCP, she had been vocal in defending Gachagua and endorsing his political movement, asserting that DCP and Jubilee remain the only parties recognized in the Mt Kenya region. She dismissed other parties as linked to "traitors" and unlikely to gain traction locally.

Implications for Kirinyaga Gubernatorial Race

Her move coincides with DCP’s efforts to consolidate political structures ahead of the 2027 general election, particularly in Kirinyaga County where Ngirici aims to run for governor.

  • Gachagua recently endorsed Senator Kamau Murango for governor, Anne Njeri for Woman Representative, and MCA James Mathenge for senator in Kirinyaga.
  • Ngirici’s decision to join DCP sets up a potential nomination battle with Murango for the gubernatorial ticket.
  • Gachagua has assured that DCP nominations will be conducted fairly, indicating a competitive primary ahead.

Reasons for Leaving UDA

Ngirici has ruled out running as an independent again, citing the challenges of campaigning without party backing. She helped campaign for President William Ruto in Mt Kenya during the 2022 elections but claims her relationship with him soured after Governor Anne Waiguru joined UDA.

Ngirici said Ruto asked her to step aside for Waiguru and instead vie for the Mwea parliamentary seat, a suggestion she declined. Subsequently, she was sidelined and left UDA, briefly rejoining after the elections before departing once more to join DCP.

Her entry into DCP marks a significant development in Kirinyaga politics, potentially leading to a high-stakes primary between two prominent contenders.