Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka are exploring a potential coalition aimed at challenging President William Ruto in the upcoming 2027 general election. Reports suggest that both leaders have appointed four-member teams to negotiate a coalition framework, symbolizing a strategic partnership that could reshape Kenya’s political dynamics.
Since Gachagua’s ouster and replacement with former Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, he has been working on plans to form an alliance with key opposition figures, including Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa. This emerging alliance aims to consolidate opposition forces to forge a “mega political machine,” as described by Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo, one of the negotiation team members. Although specifics of the negotiation process remain guarded, the partnership hints at an evolving opposition front with Gachagua poised as a central figure.
The political terrain Gachagua faces, however, is complex. After his removal as UDA’s deputy party leader, steps are reportedly being taken to push him out of the ruling party entirely. Amid this political exclusion, Gachagua is considering options, including acquiring or registering a new party to position himself for a comeback. Among potential vehicles is the former ruling Jubilee Party, which has ties to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, despite previous efforts to unseat Kenyatta as its leader. There are rumors that some strategists are pushing for reconciliation between Gachagua and Kenyatta, although Kenyatta’s position remains unclear.
A prominent ally of Gachagua, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, highlighted that the former DP has numerous options for his return to politics. “We are working on broad-based approaches as we explore available options to secure a resounding political comeback following his irregular ouster,” said Gakuya. The MP noted that Gachagua is actively consulting opinion leaders across the political spectrum, carefully timing his reentry.
In an effort to maintain visibility, Gachagua is frequently seen in his Mt. Kenya home region attending church and funeral services, events he uses as platforms to address supporters and reassure them of his enduring commitment. This grassroots engagement is part of a calculated strategy by Gachagua’s team to solidify his relevance and popularity in the region ahead of 2027.
Maanzo, discussing the opposition’s stance, suggested that a substantial portion of the Azimio faction, dissatisfied with ODM’s cooperation with the government, could potentially rally behind Gachagua. “It is definite that we are going to have a new coalition for 2027,” he said, emphasizing that coalition talks are intensifying due to public demand for political change. Maanzo also noted the need to keep negotiation details under wraps to avoid state interference.
Gachagua’s coalition-building efforts go hand-in-hand with broader outreach initiatives. He recently called on young people in Mt. Kenya, including Generation Z voters, to secure their national identification cards and prepare for voter registration. His message, however, remained measured as his strategists work to craft a public narrative that resonates with supporters without inciting government opposition. He reassured supporters that he is consulting a wide range of stakeholders, from religious leaders to business and professional communities, to strategize for a political resurgence. “I’m talking to a lot of people, and when the time is right, I will tell you,” Gachagua stated, alluding to a structured plan for his reentry.
Tensions with government agencies remain an issue, as demonstrated by recent allegations that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) attempted to prevent him from attending a church service in Roysambu, Nairobi. DCI Director Amin Mohamed dismissed these claims, stating, “The DCI operates within the parameters established by the rule of law and has consistently affirmed its commitment to refraining from interference in the liberties of individuals and institutions.” This statement underscores the ongoing scrutiny Gachagua faces from state machinery, even as he positions himself for a political comeback.
Political analyst and lawyer Ndegwa Njeru argues that an alliance between opposition leaders and Gachagua could lead to a formidable force in 2027. “Such a combination will form the next government,” Njeru stated, pointing to the potential strength of a coalition that combines Gachagua’s Mt. Kenya base with Kalonzo and Wamalwa’s respective followings.
As the 2027 election approaches, Gachagua’s alliance-building with Azimio leaders signals his intent to remain a key player in Kenyan politics, with ambitions to unify opposition forces against the Ruto administration.
