Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made a bold statement, declaring that the opposition does not need the support of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to secure victory in the upcoming 2027 general elections. Speaking on Weru TV on Sunday, Gachagua emphasized that his focus was not on a potential alliance with Raila, as he believes the opposition is capable of winning without him.
The former DP pointed out that Raila, who has previously been seen as a key figure in Kenyan politics, is already aligned with President William Ruto, making the prospect of him joining the opposition unlikely. Gachagua remarked, “I don’t know what he (Raila Odinga) will decide, I think they are together. To be honest, we don’t need him, we are fine.”
Gachagua further explained that the opposition’s core strength lies in the 3.5 million Kenyans employed in the formal sector, who, according to him, bear the brunt of excessive deductions from their pay slips. He pledged that, if the opposition takes office, they will address the high taxes, including the controversial Housing levy, and explore ways to reduce the financial burden on these workers. One of the strategies suggested is to allow counties to rent out affordable houses to help alleviate the strain on Kenyan taxpayers.
Gachagua also revealed that he is working alongside other political leaders, including former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, ex-Interior Minister Fred Matiang’i, Martha Karua of PLP, and Eugene Wamalwa of DAP-K. These leaders, along with others from the Mt. Kenya region and beyond, are said to be united by a shared vision to challenge the current leadership and bring change to the country.
Despite being impeached, Gachagua remains confident in his political journey. He insisted that he was removed from office by MPs who did not elect him, stressing that his commitment to Kenya’s future is unwavering. He is expected to launch his own political party in May, further solidifying his plans for the 2027 election.
