Rigathi Gachagua has thrown the opposition into turmoil after announcing his intention to run for president in 2027 sparking a debate over the unity and future of the anti-Ruto coalition.
Since his impeachment, Gachagua has been rallying the vote-rich Mt. Kenya region and positioning himself as a formidable anti Ruto force in the region.
However, his hardline approach and insistence on being the undisputed leader of the opposition now threatens to fracture the alliance meant to unseat President William Ruto.
Members of constituent parties in the opposition warn that Gachagua’s ambitions could split the opposition vote, a scenario reminiscent of the 1992 elections, when a divided opposition handed Daniel arap Moi another term.
While his populist message has consolidated Mt. Kenya’s support, his colleagues believe it risks isolating the region from other Kenyans to form a national winning coalition in 2027.
The DCP leader’s style of politics has also created friction with other opposition heavyweights, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, and Martha Karua.
Furthermore, Gachagua’s claims that Ruto has planted spies within the united opposition have deepened mistrust, stalling joint strategy meetings.
Reports suggest that Gachagua is already negotiating power-sharing deals for his own benefit, a move that has alienated leaders unwilling to accept his terms.
Adding to the uncertainty are Gachagua’s ongoing court battles over his impeachment, which could determine his eligibility to run.
His legal team insists he remains free to contest, but the unresolved cases inject instability into the opposition’s long-term planning.
The ex-DP is now forcing the United Opposition to either rally behind him or risk a devastating split
