The announcement comes just hours after Jubilee signaled its intention to participate in the race, calling on opposition allies to rally behind its yet-to-be-named candidate.
However, DCP has made it clear it will chart its own path this time around, citing past disappointments in political cooperation.
In a strongly worded statement, DCP Secretary General Hezron Obaga assured supporters that the party is fully prepared for the contest and will conduct free and fair nominations to identify its candidate.
In a strongly worded statement, DCP Secretary General Hezron Obaga assured supporters that the party is fully prepared for the contest and will conduct free and fair nominations to identify its candidate.
Obaga emphasized that the party is determined to strengthen its political standing and offer voters an alternative choice, rather than playing a supporting role in coalition arrangements.
“We are ready to face any party, including Jubilee, in this by-election. Democracy thrives on competition, and the people of Ol Kalou will have the final say,” he stated.
His remarks signal a shift in strategy for DCP, which now appears keen on building its own identity ahead of future national contests.
The growing rift between DCP and Jubilee stems from past by-election experiences that left the newer party dissatisfied. According to Obaga, earlier attempts at collaboration did not yield the expected outcomes.
He pointed to the Isiolo by-election, where cooperation between the two parties failed to deliver victory, as well as the Narok Town ward contest, where Jubilee allegedly did not back DCP’s candidate.
“We will not repeat the same mistakes. DCP is not a junior partner, and we are not lesser players in this political space,” Obaga asserted.
These sentiments reflect deeper tensions within the opposition, raising questions about whether a united front can be sustained ahead of future elections.
On its part, Jubilee has remained firm on its decision to field a candidate. Deputy Party Leader Jeremiah Kioni described the Ol Kalou by-election as a crucial test of unity among opposition parties.
Kioni expressed confidence that Jubilee would present a strong candidate capable of securing the seat, while also urging like-minded parties to support a single candidate in the spirit of unity.
“This contest will serve as a litmus test of our collective commitment to trust, cohesion, and the broader objective of presenting a united front,” he said.
His statement highlights Jubilee’s desire to maintain cohesion within opposition ranks, even as divisions begin to emerge.
The Ol Kalou seat fell vacant following the death of area MP David Njuguna Kiaraho, who passed away on March 29 while receiving treatment at The Nairobi Hospital.
Kiaraho, a seasoned politician, had served three consecutive terms since first being elected in 2013. His passing marked the end of a significant political era in the constituency and triggered the upcoming by-election.
The contest to replace him is expected to attract major political players, given the constituency’s strategic importance in Central Kenya politics.
The unfolding standoff between DCP and Jubilee has exposed underlying cracks within the opposition alliance. While leaders have often spoken about unity, the reality on the ground appears more complex.
Political analysts note that by-elections often reveal the true strength and independence of parties, as they test grassroots support without the broader influence of national coalitions.
DCP’s decision to go it alone could either strengthen its position as an emerging political force or risk splitting votes within the opposition, potentially benefiting rival camps.
Despite the political maneuvering, both parties agree on one thing—the ultimate decision lies with the voters of Ol Kalou.
Residents are expected to play a decisive role in shaping the constituency’s political future, choosing between continuity, change, or a new political direction altogether.
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