Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua with Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka during the Consecration of Bishop Elect Benson Gathugu Kamau at Jesus Compassion Ministry Church in Ruiru Constituency, Kiambu County on June 21, 2024. [DPCS]

Kalonzo Welcome Gachagua to Opposition Coalition

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has invited former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to join the opposition, sparking speculation about a potential coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at a burial ceremony in Embu on Thursday, Kalonzo, alongside Azimio leaders Eugene Wamalwa (DAP Kenya) and former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, expressed confidence in the progress of the coalition. He assured supporters that Azimio would remain active in its opposition role despite recent government appointments.

“Whether in government or opposition, as January approaches, we want to remind those who joined the government to go alone, but the coalition will continue. We need a new coalition,” Kalonzo said.

Wamalwa supported Kalonzo’s comments, endorsing the idea of collaborating with Gachagua and urging Kenyans to back the coalition. “We heard that the former DP said he is ready to team up with Kalonzo and Wamalwa. Do you agree that Gachagua should join us?” Wamalwa asked the crowd.

This invitation follows Gachagua’s remarks on Wednesday, where he hinted at a potential coalition with Kalonzo, recognizing Kalonzo’s past support for Mount Kenya during tough times. Gachagua stated that the region owes Kalonzo a political debt for his backing of the late President Mwai Kibaki and suggested that the 2027 elections present a chance to repay that favor.

Gachagua expressed confidence in a partnership between Ukambani and Mt Kenya, claiming it could be a powerful alliance in the next election. “We’ve done the math. For you (Kalonzo) to win the presidency, you need to secure fifty plus one. The people of Ukambani must increase their votes to between 3.5 and 4 million. Once you reach that number, look for me,” he said.

He also urged Ukambani leaders to focus on boosting voter registration to strengthen their political leverage. “We aim for 10 million votes in our region. You need 4 million votes, and if you want us to form the government together, you must ensure young people register as voters. Our only debt is to Kalonzo and the people of Ukambani,” Gachagua added.

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