Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is reportedly devising a multifaceted political strategy to undermine President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid. Gachagua, leveraging his influence in the Mt Kenya region, aims to consolidate his political base and form alliances to challenge Ruto’s dominance in the vote-rich area.
Gachagua’s fallout with Ruto, which led to his impeachment, has spurred efforts to rally support in Mt Kenya through a series of engagements with politicians, business leaders, and religious figures. His allies claim the region is firmly behind him, signaling that Ruto would need Gachagua’s backing to gain support in the area.
Embakasi North MP James Gakuya confirmed the former deputy president is exploring various strategies for a political resurgence, while Senator Joe Nyutu hinted that a clear roadmap would be unveiled in January after ongoing consultations.
Gachagua is also engaging in negotiations with Kalonzo Musyoka and other Azimio coalition leaders to forge a mega alliance. Kalonzo, reportedly disillusioned by Raila Odinga’s cooperation with Ruto, is keen on collaborating with Gachagua. Wiper Party leaders, including Senator Dan Maanzo and Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi, have hinted at the formation of a broad coalition that could include Mt Kenya leaders.
Gachagua has also intensified public engagements, using platforms like funerals, churches, and social events to criticize Ruto’s administration as corrupt and ineffective. Political analyst Martin Andati believes this strategy could significantly hinder Ruto’s ability to campaign effectively in Mt Kenya, marking the beginning of a fierce political rivalry.
