Kasarani not available on June 3: Gachagua's party postpones launch

The Kasarani Gymnasium./FILE

The official launch of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s new political outfit has been postponed after Sports Kenya declined to provide access to Kasarani Gymnasium.

Sports Kenya cited prior bookings and upcoming international events in denying the Democracy for the Citizen Party (DCP) the venue.

In a letter addressed to DCP, Sports Kenya Acting Director General Gabriel Komora confirmed that the party's request to use the Kasarani Indoor Arena on June 3, 2025, could not be honoured “due to earlier commitments by sporting teams and preparations for the upcoming 2025 Championships for African Nations (CHAN), set to be hosted at the venue.”

“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 CHAN 2025,” said Komora.

He advised the party to seek an alternative venue for its event.

However, DCP officials expressed dismay, alleging the cancellation was politically motivated.

In a statement to party members, DCP Secretary General Hezron Obaga described the development as “unfortunate” and accused the government of attempting to sabotage the party’s official debut.

Obaga revealed that after an initial communication on May 21, Sports Kenya had advised the party to shift its launch date from June 4 to June 3.

He said the management had confirmed the new date and issued an invoice for Sh3,706,800, which the party was ready to pay.

“To our shock, Sports Kenya has now cancelled the booking indefinitely, stating that the venue will not be available on June 3, 2025, or any other date in the near future,” said Obaga.

“This indefinite venue cancellation is an affront to democracy and an attempt to deter the DCP Party Launch by the government.”

He insisted that as a public facility, the Kasarani Gymnasium should be accessible to all Kenyans regardless of their political affiliation.

As a result of the cancellation, the DCP has postponed its launch and is now seeking a private venue.

“It is clear the government will not allow DCP to use its facilities. We are in the process of identifying a suitable venue in a private facility, and a new launch date will be communicated in due course,” Obaga added.

The move is expected to spark further political debate, with the DCP accusing state agencies of discrimination.