Rigathi Gachagua Clashes With Opposition Leaders Over 2027 Strategy
Rigathi Gachagua urged opposition leaders to prioritize grassroots mobilization to defeat President William Ruto, while rivals accused him of arrogance and political bullying.
Former Deputy President and Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has entered a public dispute with opposition allies over the strategy to unseat President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election. Speaking from his residence in Wamunyoro, Gachagua argued that defeating Ruto requires mobilizing 18 million votes through grassroots efforts rather than meetings in hotel rooms or boardrooms.
Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang’i and Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi have criticized Gachagua's approach, accusing him of political bullying and arrogance. Matiang’i warned that Gachagua's majoritarian pride threatens to split the united opposition, potentially weakening their chances in the next election. Muturi added that political partnerships must be built on mutual respect rather than supremacy contests or ultimatums.
Gachagua rejected these accusations, asserting that his focus on electoral numbers is a practical necessity. He proposed uniting political blocs from Mt Kenya, Ukambani, and Western Kenya to secure a majority of the expected 26 million registered voters. While expressing support for a single opposition candidate, Gachagua suggested he may seek the presidential ticket himself, questioning why he should only help others given his experience in producing past presidents.
