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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has praised supporters of the United Opposition in Nyamira County for endorsing former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i for the presidency, calling it a major boost for opposition forces ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a post on his official X account, Gachagua lauded residents of Nyamira and Kisii counties for backing Matiang’i during a high-profile ceremony at Ekerenyo Grounds in Nyamira, where the former CS was symbolically crowned as the spokesman of the Abagusii community.
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“We thank you for endorsing our brother Dr. Fred Matiang’i on behalf of the United Opposition to liberate our nation,” Gachagua said. “Congratulations, Dr. Fred Matiang’i! The people have spoken—welcome to the winning team.”
The event, attended by prominent opposition figures including Kalonzo Musyoka, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, marked a significant political moment in the Abagusii region.
Gachagua highlighted the demonstration of unity as evidence of shifting political dynamics in an area that has historically supported the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
“We have witnessed the will of the people of Nyamira and Kisii counties in this cause,” he added.
During the ceremony, Kisii elders blessed Matiang’i and presented him with traditional instruments symbolizing his role as the national voice of the Abagusii community. He was also draped in a ceremonial cloth, a cultural emblem of leadership and responsibility.
Matiang’i thanked the elders for the blessing and pledged to honor their trust. He assured the community that he would take the responsibility seriously and vowed to deliver victory for the opposition. He also committed to seeking guidance from the council of elders throughout his campaign, should he win the presidency.
The endorsement comes as United Opposition leaders intensify efforts to unify support behind a single presidential candidate to challenge President William Ruto in 2027.
Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), emphasized that opposition unity is essential for mounting a credible challenge against the incumbent. He reassured supporters that the United Opposition remains committed to backing whichever candidate emerges as the consensus nominee.
According to Gachagua, the faction has agreed that rallying behind a single candidate is the only realistic path to unseat President Ruto. Opposition leaders are currently touring the broader Abagusii region, an area political analysts say is gradually shifting from its traditional voting patterns.
