Former Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi has officially joined the Democratic Congress Party led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, marking a significant alignment in the Mt Kenya region's political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general election.
Havi made the announcement during a press conference at the DCP headquarters in Nairobi on December 14, 2025, where he was welcomed by Gachagua and other party officials. The move comes as Gachagua seeks to consolidate support in Central Kenya following his impeachment in October 2025. havi and gachagua.png409.59 KB
Gachagua described Havi's entry as a boost for the party's legal and governance agenda. "Nelson Havi is a brilliant lawyer, a fearless advocate for justice, and a son of Mt Kenya who understands the people's aspirations," Gachagua said. "His joining DCP is a clear signal that we are building a party of professionals committed to ending the politics of deceit and delivering real development."
Havi, who served as LSK president from 2019 to 2021, said he was drawn to DCP's focus on accountability and economic empowerment. "I have watched from the sidelines as leaders promise heaven but deliver hell," Havi stated. "DCP under Gachagua offers a fresh start for Mt Kenya—away from the cartels that have plundered our resources. I am here to lend my legal expertise and fight for the rule of law."
The former LSK boss revealed he will seek the DCP ticket for the Nyeri gubernatorial seat in 2027, challenging incumbent Governor Mutahi Kahiga who is aligned with United Democratic Alliance. "Nyeri deserves better than the status quo of poverty and unfulfilled promises," Havi said. "We will transform it into a hub of innovation and prosperity."
DCP Secretary General Vincent Musau said Havi's membership brings the party's total to over 1.2 million, with branches in all 47 counties. "Nelson is not just joining; he is bringing his network of lawyers and professionals," Musau said. "This strengthens our position as the alternative voice for Kenyans tired of the current regime's failures."
Havi's decision has sparked reactions from political quarters. UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar dismissed it as desperate. "Havi is a fine lawyer, but aligning with a sinking ship like DCP won't save him," Omar said. "Mt Kenya has moved on from Gachagua's divisive politics."
Azimio co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka welcomed the move as a sign of shifting alliances. "We are open to talks with DCP for a grand coalition in 2027," Kalonzo said. "Havi's legal mind will be an asset in fighting for electoral justice."
Political analyst Dr Martin Ouma described the joining as a strategic play. "Havi gives DCP credibility in legal circles," Ouma said. "But he must navigate the region's UDA dominance. This could split votes in Nyeri, benefiting opposition."
Havi addressed potential conflicts with his legal career. "I will continue practising law until the campaign period," he said. "DCP is about justice, and I will bring that ethos to politics."
The event saw over 500 supporters, including youth from Nyeri and Embu, chanting DCP slogans. Gachagua closed by rallying for unity. "With Havi on board, DCP is unstoppable," he declared. "2027 is ours."
As parties position for 2027, Havi's move underscores the fluid alliances in Mt Kenya.
