(Photo courtesy)
What appeared to be a push for opposition unity has now exposed fresh cracks within the United Opposition, with Rigathi Gachagua openly challenging his fellow leaders to prove their commitment to defeating President William Ruto in 2027.
The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader accused his opposition co-principals of failing to mobilise voters on the ground despite their ambitions to become the coalition's presidential flagbearer.
His remarks came after a nearly month-long visit to the United States, where he claimed opposition leaders had remained silent while Kenya Kwanza leaders continued attacking them.
The former Deputy President's comments did not go down well with some of his allies, who accused him of political bullying and trying to impose his authority on the coalition.
However, Gachagua maintained that his message had been misunderstood. He challenged the opposition leaders to leave their homes, organise supporters at the grassroots and stop relying on press conferences if they were serious about removing Ruto from power.
He also warned that the President was working to strengthen his political support in Mt Kenya, accusing him of using local politicians to divide the region's voting bloc.
Gachagua insisted that unity in the region would be important in determining the 2027 presidential contest.
"If I see that happening, I know that defeat him, we must unite as a region, but if we don't, he will be re-elected," he said.
He further warned that he would consider returning to the United States if Ruto secured another term.
The growing tension comes days after Gachagua held a closed-door meeting with Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang'i and Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, raising questions about the future of opposition unity.
However, political analyst Maina Kamunya believes Gachagua has a reason to demand stronger leadership and coordination within the coalition.
Kamunya argued that Gachagua understands Ruto's political strategies better because of his previous experience inside the Kenya Kwanza government.
He noted that some opposition leaders who previously worked under the Azimio coalition may not have the same understanding of how Ruto operates politically.
According to the analyst, Gachagua's criticism should be viewed as a warning that defeating Ruto will require serious grassroots mobilisation rather than occasional meetings and public declarations.
(Photo courtesy)
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