Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been barred from launching the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) at the Kasarani stadium, which was scheduled to take place on June 4, 2025.

The government revoked Gachagua’s party booking of the venue that had already been confirmed, citing prior bookings by sports teams.

In addition, DCP was informed that the venue would not be taking any more bookings due to the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) CHAN 2025 tournament preparations.

“We are in receipt of your letter dated 20 May, 2025, requesting the use of Sports Kenya facility to host the launch of the upcoming Democracy for the Citizen Party.

“We regret to inform you that the venue will not be available due to prior bookings by sports teams. We are also not taking further bookings due to preparations for the upcoming Championships for African Nations (CHAN 2025) to be hosted within the complex. Kindly consider looking for an alternative venue,” read part of sports Kenya statement.

Meanwhile, DCP Secretary General Hezron Obaga, condemned the cancellation, terming it an affront to democracy.

In addition, the party cited recent chaos witnessed during its unveiling event at the party headquarters in Lavington Nairobi, saying that the party was being targeted.

“The indefinite venue cancellation by Sports Kenya is an affront to democracy and an attempt to deter the DCP party launch by the government. 

“The Kasarani gymnasium facility (indoor arena auditorium) is a public facility which every Kenyan has a right to access and utilise for the public good,” Obaga noted in a statement.

“We strongly condemn the aggression directed towards the DCP party, particularly during our party unveiling on 15th May 2025 at the party headquarters,” he added.

The party has temporarily postponed its launch as it seeks an alternative venue to host the event.