Wamalwa, Natembeya rift widens as DAP-K convenes crisis talks

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa at a past event. [File, Standard]

Amid growing reports of internal divisions within the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), a crisis meeting has been scheduled today to address emerging leadership disputes.

The meeting, reportedly convened by allies of DAP-K deputy party leader and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, is expected to be held without the knowledge or approval of Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa. Sources indicate that Wamalwa's close allies were not invited, signalling a deepening rift within the party's top leadership.

The move comes as efforts to replace Wamalwa appear to be gathering momentum, with a faction within DAP-K expressing dissatisfaction with the current direction of the party.

On July 30, four DAP-K MPs - Patrick Barasa (Cherang'any), Dick Maungu (Luanda), Peter Salasya (Mumias East), and Maurice Kakai (Kiminini), publicly addressed the matter, raising concerns over what they termed as a coordinated attempt to destabilise the party through a hostile takeover.

"Governor Natembeya has enjoyed full moral, political, and legal support from the party, evident during his gubernatorial campaigns, two impeachment proceedings, and recent corruption allegations," said the MPs in a joint statement. "However, his recent actions contradict the democratic values he claims to uphold."

They accused Natembeya of orchestrating an unconstitutional takeover targeting Wamalwa and the national leadership, warning that such moves would be strongly resisted.

"We are aware that he has already formed a new political outfit. We caution him against attempts to dismantle DAP-K as he prepares to exit," the MPs stated.

On August 1, the party's National Management Committee met at Chui House Party Headquarters and took what it described as "decisive action" to safeguard the integrity, stability, and unity of the party.

Party leader Wamalwa called on members and supporters to remain calm and loyal, assuring them that DAP-K remains "unshaken, unbowed, and marching forward."

He noted that the upcoming by-elections would be a key test of the party's strength and readiness, reiterating that DAP-K will field candidates across the country as part of its one-term transformation agenda.

"Anyone seeking shortcuts will face the full force of the party's disciplinary systems," he stated; "My brothers Salasya and Natembeya do not need to leave or stage a coup to pursue leadership or presidential ambitions. You are free to contest against me in transparent, fair nominations."

He added that the party encourages internal democracy and provides all members with equal opportunity to realise their political aspirations without airing internal disputes publicly.

The committee also resolved to refer all grievances and petitions to the party's Internal Dispute Resolution Mechanism for appropriate action.

In response, Governor Natembeya has called for reforms to broaden the party's national appeal, arguing that DAP-K must move beyond its regional base to remain politically relevant.

"If we are to use DAP-K as a vehicle for national negotiations, it must reflect the face of Kenya. Otherwise, we must explore ways to accommodate everyone. Why should I abandon a party I helped build? We need internal democracy," Natembeya said.

He also expressed frustration that some within the party leadership oppose efforts to nationalise the party's reach, treating it as a regional outfit.