Gachagua claims plot to delay IDs in opposition zones, threatens Huduma Centre sit-ins

Speaking on Monday during the unveiling of DCP’s Kiambu County gubernatorial candidate John Mwaura at the party headquarters in Nairobi, the former Deputy President said there was a “deliberate scheme” to interfere with the ongoing voter registration exercise by delaying ID issuance in areas perceived to support the opposition.

“There is a deliberate scheme to alter the ongoing voter registration through delaying ID issuance in opposition strongholds,” Gachagua claimed.

He said his team would mobilise young people to occupy offices involved in ID issuance, including Huduma Centres and the Office of the Registrar of Persons, in protest against what he described as election malpractice.

“We will rally our young people to occupy the Office of Registrar of IDs and Huduma Centres,” he said.

Deputy party leader Cleophas Malala backed the call, saying the opposition would not sit back and watch votes being stolen.

“We will not sit back and watch our votes being stolen,” Malala said.

Gachagua also appealed to young people, particularly Gen Z, to register in large numbers, saying the opposition wants them to be at the centre of efforts to defeat President William Ruto in 2027.

“We apologise to you Gen Zs for not initiating with you Niko Kadi campaigns… we are now asking you to be Kadi to oust Ruto,” he said.

His comments come days after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) raised concerns that close to half a million national ID cards remain uncollected.

Gachagua also weighed in on the recent fuel price increase, accusing President Ruto of influencing the latest pump prices through Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi — claims not independently verified.

He said opposition principals will meet on Tuesday to agree on a schedule for anti-government protests over the fuel price spike, saying demonstrations will be properly planned.

Gachagua further claimed the fuel prices were “deliberately altered” and alleged they included the President’s “share” — an assertion for which he did not provide evidence.

The former DP also accused the President of attempting to divide opposition outfits, including ODM, as he insisted the opposition would push for free and fair elections.