Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has officially begun laying the groundwork for a broad political coalition that he says will challenge President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.
Speaking during an interview with Weru TV on Sunday, Gachagua revealed that he is in talks with various influential leaders across the political spectrum, with the aim of forming what he described as “a strong and credible alternative” to the current administration.
Among those he mentioned as part of the early consultations include former cabinet secretaries Fred Matiang’i, Mithika Linturi, and Justin Muturi, as well as key political figures such as Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, and Mukhisa Kituyi.
“This is about unity and purpose. We believe we’re on the right side of history,” Gachagua said, signaling his intent to rally opposition forces into a national movement.
He further disclosed plans to unveil a new political party by May, which will act as the vehicle for the 2027 campaign. According to him, the strategy will be based on verifiable data and extensive grassroots mobilization, rather than ethnic alliances or personal deals.
“We are relying on scientific research and polling to drive our decisions. This will be a structured and evidence-based campaign,” he said.
One of the key policy positions Gachagua outlined is his opposition to the government’s Housing Levy, which has faced criticism from various quarters. He stated that, if elected, the coalition would abolish the levy, refund contributors, and transfer the housing program to county governments.
“The Housing Levy is not working for Kenyans. We want to empower counties to manage these projects directly,” he noted.
The coalition, which Gachagua says aims to secure at least 50 parliamentary seats from the Central region alone, is expected to name its presidential flagbearer by the end of 2026.
“This is not just a political outfit—it’s a national movement,” Gachagua concluded.
