Gachagua's DCP Party Reveals How Hired Goons In Police Gear Vandalized Billboard In Nairobi

It all began with images shared by Irungu Nyakera, which showed the aftermath of the defaced billboard

Gachagua's DCP Party Reveals How Hired Goons In Police Gear Vandalized Billboard In Nairobi
A collage of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) billboard before and after it was destroyed on May 17, 2025. /IRUNGU NYAKERA

The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) has uncovered fresh details surrounding an incident whereby one of its congratulatory billboards celebrating its launch was brought down in Nairobi.

It all began with images shared by Irungu Nyakera, which showed the aftermath of the defaced billboard, which featured former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua (Riggy G), the DCP Party Leader, and Nyakera.

The billboard had carried the message, "Hongera Riggy G on your party launch," alongside photos of the two leaders.

The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) billboard after it was destroyed on May 17, 2025. /IRUNGU NYAKERA

While strongly condemning the incident as an act of violence, harassment and intimidation directed at its party and its supporters, DCP in a statement sent to Viral Tea on Saturday, May 17, expressed that the "cowardly and criminal acts strike at the core of our democratic ideals—freedom of expression, freedom of association, and the fundamental right of all Kenyans to participate in the political process without fear or coercion."

DCP went on to spill the beans on the events that led to the defacing of the billboards. On the evening of Friday, May 16, at Kayole Junction in Nairobi, hired goons attempted to force their way into a private building where a newly erected billboard bearing the party’s message had been installed. Their initial efforts were however repelled by the building’s security team.

Later that night, at around midnight, the building was again targeted—this time by individuals dressed in police gear, equipped with walkie-talkies.

"They jumped the gate, overpowered the security guards, and accessed the fourth floor, where they proceeded to tear down the billboard promoting our party and its leadership.

"According to witnesses, the attackers stated that “hao watu wako hapo wanapinga serikali (these people are here opposing the government)”, making their intentions and political motivations clear," the statement read in part.

DCP added that the criminal act was reported at Kariobangi Police Station. However, they were displeased by the first response from officers at the station, stating that it was not one of concern or professionalism, but one of clear bias and intimidation, asking: “Wewe ndio umeweka hile picha kubwa ya Wamunyoro na Nyakera? (Are you the one who put up that big picture of Wamunyoro and Nyakera?)”

"Such statements by officers of the law are deeply disturbing and point to a broader, systemic attempt to suppress legitimate political expression through fear, harassment, and abuse of authority. This is not only unacceptable—it is unconstitutional," added the statement.

DCP went on to urge the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, and relevant oversight bodies to urgently investigate the incident and hold accountable all those responsible for these criminal acts.

On Saturday, May 17, Nyakera took to social media to denounce the vandalism of the billboard, voicing his frustration and disappointment over the incident.

“To the two illegitimate governments' headquarters in Nairobi: You can destroy a billboard, but you cannot stop the message. Congratulations, Riggy, on DCP Launch. Agenda ni WANTAM for Kenya and Nairobi,” Nyakera stated.

"Politicians wa Kanairo/Kayole,—Isn't it too early for this?" Nyakera further questioned the motive behind the act.

Just two days earlier, on May 15, Gachagua had unveiled his new political party, featuring a neon green, brown, and white colour scheme. The party's slogan, “Skiza Wakenya,” is paired with a logo depicting an ear with fingers cupped around it, symbolising active listening.

Gachagua will serve as the party leader, with former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala appointed as interim Deputy Party Leader, and former Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi named the National Organising Secretary.

Collage of Rigathi Gachagua's new party, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP). /VIRAL TEA KE