Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly disagreed with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka regarding the timing of the united opposition’s 2027 presidential candidate announcement.
Speaking in Githurai, Kiambu County, on January 3, Gachagua urged caution, stating, “Don’t rush us or pressure us to name our presidential candidate now. If we announce a candidate at this time, President Ruto will harass the candidate.”
He suggested unveiling their flagbearer in December 2026 or January 2027, a stark contrast to Musyoka’s earlier commitment to announce a candidate by the first quarter of 2026.
Gachagua’s stance comes amidst significant political shifts, including his own impeachment in October 2024, just two years after taking office alongside President William Ruto.
The impeachment, which saw him removed from the Deputy President post over charges including insubordination and undermining the government, has left him in a precarious position.
Despite this, Gachagua remains a prominent figure in the opposition, assuring supporters that a single candidate will be agreed upon to face President Ruto in 2027, mentioning himself, Martha Karua, and Kalonzo Musyoka as potential contenders.
The political landscape is further complicated by Gachagua’s recent criticisms of the Ruto administration, which he labeled a “trustless regime” in his New Year 2026 message, highlighting economic hardships and alleged corruption in 2025.
This internal disagreement within the opposition on candidate timing, coupled with Gachagua’s past impeachment and ongoing critiques of the government, sets the stage for a highly anticipated and potentially volatile 2027 general election.
