Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi has launched a scathing attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of political bullying, double-speak and pursuing personal interests that could undermine the United Opposition’s chances of capturing State House in 2027.
In a strongly worded statement, Muturi questioned Gachagua’s commitment to the opposition’s collective presidential ambition, warning that his approach to coalition politics risks dividing leaders at a time when unity is critical.
Muturi particularly criticised Gachagua’s insistence on tripartite political arrangements, arguing that creating separate political formations could weaken the opposition rather than strengthen its electoral prospects.
According to Muturi, Gachagua’s political strategy raises questions about whether his ultimate objective is winning the presidency or securing control of parliamentary seats, county governments and political influence ahead of possible post-election negotiations.
He warned that such an approach could sacrifice the opposition’s bigger national ambition for individual political survival.
The former National Assembly Speaker also challenged the apparent reliance on regional and ethnic political calculations, insisting that no single community can deliver Kenya’s presidency.
He argued that winning a presidential election requires broad national support, strategic alliances, compromise and mutual respect among political partners.
Muturi further accused Gachagua of undermining existing political cooperation through what he described as intimidation, ultimatums and supremacy contests.
He maintained that the United Opposition cannot succeed if individual leaders prioritise controlling political territories instead of building one formidable national movement.
Drawing lessons from Gachagua’s family political history, Muturi recalled how his late brother, Nderitu Gachagua, won the Nyeri gubernatorial contest despite competing against powerful political formations.
He used the example to demonstrate that political alliances are complex and cannot be dictated by one individual.
Muturi’s intervention exposes growing concerns over the opposition’s internal direction as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
While reaffirming the Democratic Party’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, Muturi insisted that the party would not surrender its principles to intimidation.
His central warning was unmistakable: personal political ambitions must not destroy the opposition’s opportunity to build a united national coalition capable of winning State House.
