Gachagua Raises Fresh Questions Over Opposition Unity Ahead of 2027

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has raised fresh concerns about the unity of Kenya’s opposition as political leaders continue discussions on how to approach the 2027 General Election.

Speaking to Kenyans living in the United States on Sunday, September 27, the former Deputy President challenged opposition leaders seeking the presidential ticket to publicly commit to supporting whoever is eventually selected as the coalition’s flagbearer.

Gachagua said he was prepared to support the coalition’s preferred candidate even if he is not the person chosen to lead the presidential campaign.

He, however, questioned whether all the opposition principals would make the same commitment.

“I will support anyone who is chosen, if not me. And I challenge my brothers and sisters also to give a similar commitment publicly,” Gachagua said.

The DCP leader expressed concern over statements allegedly being made by some supporters of opposition politicians, suggesting that they could back President William Ruto if their preferred candidate fails to secure the coalition ticket.

Gachagua said such remarks could undermine efforts to build a united opposition ahead of the election.

He called on opposition principals to take responsibility for the messages coming from their respective camps and encourage their supporters to support the eventual coalition candidate.

The former Deputy President said the opposition should focus on reaching an agreement on a single presidential candidate rather than allowing individual ambitions to weaken the broader alliance.

Gachagua has previously indicated that he would remain within the opposition arrangement even if another leader is selected as the presidential candidate. Recent reports also indicate that he expects the negotiations eventually to produce one candidate, although he has suggested that one of the current principals could leave the arrangement after the choice is made.

The question of who will carry the opposition’s presidential ticket remains unsettled. Among the prominent figures associated with the emerging opposition arrangement are Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Jubilee politician Fred Matiang’i.

Gachagua’s latest remarks add to the growing debate over whether the opposition leaders can overcome their differences and agree on a common candidate before the 2027 election.

With political realignments continuing, the coming months are expected to be crucial as the opposition parties negotiate the structure, leadership and presidential ticket of their proposed coalition.