Jubilee Deputy Leader Jeremiah Kioni has warned that the political fortunes of opposition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka and Fred Matiang’i could be at risk if former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is cleared by the courts to run for office in 2027.
Speaking on Tuesday, Kioni said that Gachagua’s potential return to active politics, despite him not being a favourite of the people, would dramatically alter opposition politics, particularly in Mt Kenya.
“DCP Party is not deeply in the hearts of people, but they are the ones knocking on doors. Gachagua will run for the presidency, and when he runs, Kalonzo and Matiang’i should ask themselves where they will be,” Kioni said.
He further praised Gachagua’s political strategy, noting that he has been more effective in promoting his party, the DCP, across Mt Kenya, than other opposition figures.
He described Gachagua as a shrewd operator who has capitalized on the weakening of the Jubilee Party to consolidate influence in the region.
“I feel a little unhappy because during this transition, Jubilee has lost ground, especially in the mountains; Gachagua seized it and has run with it,” Kioni lamented.
“The people who were fighting for Jubilee when I was fighting for its survival could easily be benefiting again because of this lull we are having as we take off.”
Gachagua was impeached on October 17, 2024, by the Senate on charges of gross misconduct, corruption, and ethnic incitement, becoming the first Deputy President to be removed under the 2010 Constitution.
He is currently challenging his impeachment in the High Court, seeking damages rather than reinstatement.
