The unity of Kenya’s opposition appears to be faltering as sharp differences emerge among its top leaders ahead of the 2027 General Election. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has taken a frontline role in the opposition, recently launched a thinly-veiled attack on unnamed presidential hopefuls, dismissing their strategies as ineffective.
Speaking at a rally in Kajiado County, Gachagua criticized aspirants who, according to him, rely on social media and closed-door meetings rather than grassroots mobilization.
“Ati unafikiria ukiweka picha ya mtu huko social media ati he can be president… That cannot make you president. You must go back there and mobilise the numbers,” Gachagua stated.
The rally, which opposed the privatisation of the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), brought together opposition figures including DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa and DP Party Leader Justin Muturi. Wamalwa accused the government of attempting to “grab” national assets, while Muturi suggested President Ruto should face accountability after his term.
However, Gachagua’s remarks appeared directed at former Interior CS Dr. Fred Matiang’i, who has also declared interest in the 2027 presidency. Matiang’i, speaking in Nakuru, acknowledged the existence of cracks in the opposition but urged patience and respect among leaders.
“No leader can choose a leader for Kenya… From time to time, we will have differences, then arguments, but eventually, we will sit down and resolve them,” Matiang’i said.
Despite his call for calm, analysts note that the tension highlights a brewing rivalry within the opposition, especially as leaders jostle for supremacy in the 2027 race. With Gachagua pushing a populist, rally-driven strategy and Matiang’i advocating structured dialogue, the opposition faces a delicate balancing act to maintain cohesion.
As the battle lines for 2027 begin to take shape, the opposition’s ability to overcome internal divisions may prove decisive in determining whether President William Ruto will secure a second term or face a united front determined to cut short his presidency.
