The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) has officially unveiled more candidates set to participate in the upcoming by-elections, asserting its preparedness to contest all 22 vacant electoral jurisdictions.

Speaking during a press briefing held on Tuesday, August 5, Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala confirmed that the party had received an overwhelming number of applications from interested candidates across the country.

“Today, on behalf of the party leader, I am glad to unveil the following candidates in the following electoral jurisdictions, and I would like to invite them to our party,” Malala stated, while introducing some of the aspirants.

Nomination Exercises to Be Conducted Where Necessary

Malala disclosed that in areas where more than one aspirant had shown interest, the DCP would conduct internal party nominations. He emphasized that the selection process would be free, fair, and transparent, in accordance with the party’s constitution and overseen by its National Executive Council (NEC).

“We will have nominations in areas where we have more than one candidate. It is the resolve of the NEC that we are going to conduct free and fair nominations,” he added.

This move comes amid rising interest in the DCP, particularly from regions where it has recently gained grassroots support.

Confirmed Candidates for Malava and Banissa Begin Campaigns

So far, only two DCP candidates—those vying for the Malava and Banissa constituencies—have been formally confirmed and launched their campaign trails.

Malala took the opportunity to address false reports circulating online, particularly regarding Aden Mohammed, alias Kiongozi, the party’s candidate for Banissa. He rubbished claims that Kiongozi had withdrawn from the race, terming the reports as fabricated and politically motivated.

“The rumours that our candidate in Banissa, Mr. Aden Mohammed, has pulled out are false. There is an orchestrated attempt by the government to compromise DCP candidates, and we want to put a stop to such propaganda,” said Malala.

Allegations of Election Date Delays and Government Interference

In a strongly worded statement, Malala criticized the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for what he termed as unjustified delays in announcing the dates for the by-elections.

He accused the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) of intentionally pushing for delays, allegedly due to internal fears over losing in the majority of the 22 constituencies.

“We urge the IEBC to lead by its words. The last time they addressed the press, they assured the nation they would announce the date within a week. To date, they have not. We believe UDA is trying to delay because they are not ready. They’ve done a survey and realised they stand no chance in any of the 22 races,” he claimed.

Call for Electoral Transparency and Institutional Independence

Malala concluded by urging the IEBC to maintain its independence and resist political pressure, particularly from what he described as influential forces within the ruling coalition. He called on UDA leadership to respect the democratic process and refrain from interference in the management of the elections.

“We call on the IEBC to stay true to its mandate. It must not be intimidated by those who fear defeat. As for my former party, UDA, they should stop meddling in the affairs of a free and fair electoral process,” he said