It is deeply troubling that the opposition has effectively surrendered the February by-elections, giving UDA a psychological edge even before campaigns begin. The excuses offered are weak and reveal a leadership unwilling to leave its comfort zone or fight for seats.
Rigathi Gachagua, speaking on Kameme FM and TV, openly admitted that DCP will not field candidates in some key areas, citing clanism, ethnicity, and lack of party presence. In Isiolo South, he even said DCP won’t compete because he hasn’t “popularised” the party there. In other words, fear of losing has made him step aside — giving UDA an uncontested path. If this logic applied nationwide, the opposition might as well hand the country over without a fight.
By-elections are not just about winning; they are about presence, visibility, and growth. Contesting, even if the seat is lost, builds networks, tests messaging, and strengthens the party brand. Instead, Gachagua’s decision demoralises supporters and cedes ground to UDA. In Evurore, the Democratic Party settled on a tired, uninspiring candidate chosen purely by paperwork, not popularity. In Muminji and West Kabras, opposition parties are handpicking candidates without proper engagement.
Meanwhile, UDA is using primaries strategically, projecting strength and legitimacy while the opposition hesitates. Competitive primaries familiarise voters with candidates and build momentum — a tool the opposition refuses to use.
What we are seeing is more than poor strategy. It is fear in plain sight. Gachagua has given up, effectively allowing UDA to win unopposed in multiple areas. The opposition risks losing not just seats, but credibility, momentum, and the trust of voters. Politics rewards courage, not caution. By bowing out before the fight, Gachagua has handed UDA both the stage and the advantage.
