Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has stirred political anticipation with his announcement of a “big revolution” to be revealed in January 2025. Speaking during a church service on Sunday, Gachagua disclosed that he has been engaging with various leaders and stakeholders to shape the future of Kenya’s political landscape.
“Come January, I will reveal to you what we have been talking about,” Gachagua told the congregation. He noted that his consultations include religious leaders, businesspeople, professionals, and other leaders committed to the welfare of the people.
“Naendelea kuongea na watu. Viongozi wetu wa kanisa, wafanya biashara wetu, professionals wetu na viongozi ambao wanapenda watu wetu tunaongea. January hii nitamueleza vile tumesikizana,” he said, which translates to, “I am having talks with our religious leaders, our businessmen, our professionals, and leaders who love us. Come January, I will reveal to you what we have agreed upon.”
Talks of a New Political Coalition
Gachagua’s remarks come amid speculation of realignments within Kenya’s political circles. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka recently confirmed ongoing discussions with Gachagua, signaling a potential shift in alliances. According to Kalonzo, these talks aim to foster a strong coalition that could reshape the country’s political dynamics ahead of the next election cycle.
“We will talk to everyone going forward to build a strong coalition. What I can say is that there will come a time when we will ask everyone to validate their membership in Azimio and expand,” Kalonzo stated.
Insiders suggest that the proposed coalition could feature prominent figures from across Kenya’s political spectrum. Kalonzo, alongside Eugene Wamalwa’s Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), has hinted at decamping from the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition.
A New Political Vehicle in the Works
Makueni MP Daniel Maanzo, a close ally of Kalonzo, revealed that preparations for the new political outfit are already underway. The coalition, expected to be unveiled by December, seeks to unite like-minded parties and establish a formidable alliance.
“We are working on the new coalition and looking for new partners. The coalition should be in place by Christmas. We are first making sure we have as many like-minded parties as possible,” Maanzo said.
He further indicated that Mt. Kenya would play a significant role in the coalition’s strategy. “We are working together with the community (Mt. Kenya). It is one of the regions we are going to work with,” he added.
Implications for Kenya’s Political Landscape
Gachagua’s planned announcement and the rumored coalition signal a major shift in Kenya’s political scene. These developments could challenge the status quo and create a new axis of power. The alignment of Kalonzo, Wamalwa, and Gachagua, along with other prominent leaders, suggests a broader strategy to consolidate political influence and capture the trust of various communities nationwide.
With the next general elections still some years away, these moves hint at an early start to coalition-building and campaign groundwork. The collaboration could also complicate existing alliances within Azimio la Umoja and the Kenya Kwanza coalition, forcing other leaders to reassess their strategies.
Gachagua’s reference to “a big revolution” has left many speculating about the nature of his announcement. While details remain scant, the involvement of key leaders and stakeholders underscores the significance of this political moment.
The Road to January
As the political world waits for Gachagua’s January announcement, the groundwork being laid by Kalonzo, Wamalwa, and their allies points to a high-stakes contest for political influence. The coming months will be crucial in determining how these alliances take shape and whether they can deliver on their promises of transformative leadership.
For now, Kenyans will keep a keen eye on Gachagua’s consultations and the unfolding coalition-building efforts, anticipating the potential impacts on Kenya’s political future.
