The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader revealed that their talks focused on key historical lessons drawn from the creation of the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC). NARC famously united opposition factions in 2002, bringing an end to KANU’s 24-year rule.
Taking an apparent indirect jab at Martha Karua – traditionally dubbed the “Iron Lady” – Gachagua described Ngilu as the true “Iron Lady of Kenyan politics.” He credited her with shaping NARC’s winning strategy alongside former President Mwai Kibaki and the late Vice President Michael Kijana Wamalwa.
According to Gachagua, Ngilu offered valuable details on how key figures negotiated, structured, and mobilized the historic coalition.
He noted that Ngilu shared strategic insights that could prove vital as opposition forces work to challenge the ruling Kenya Kwanza administration in the upcoming election cycle. Beyond electoral strategy, the two leaders deliberated on mechanisms to combat corruption, curb impunity, and guide the nation toward economic growth.
“The lessons I have learnt will be very instrumental. I assure the Kenyan people that I am more knowledgeable and I can clearly see light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
Drawing parallels between the current political landscape and the pre-2002 realignment, Gachagua pointed to how opposition parties joined forces behind Kibaki to defeat then-President Daniel Arap Moi’s backed candidate, Uhuru Kenyatta. He affirmed that opposition leaders are actively coordinating to select a single, formidable flag bearer for the 2027 contest.
“We have a 2002 moment, and our promise is that we shall identify one presidential candidate who will win by a landslide,” Gachagua said.
This sit-down with Ngilu forms part of a broader series of high-level engagements Gachagua has undertaken since returning from his United States tour on October 20. His recent itinerary includes consultations with Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) leader Kalonzo Musyoka and figures tied to the Linda Mwananchi Movement, headed by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
These consultative meetings signal accelerating momentum among opposition outfits as they refine coalition structures, line up leadership agreements, and determine their strategy to field a single presidential candidate in 2027.
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