Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a stern warning to fellow opposition leaders against abandoning the “one‑term movement,” saying those who defect in pursuit of personal gain will face political isolation.
Speaking during his U.S. tour in Kansas on Tuesday, Gachagua, now the leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), accused President William Ruto’s administration of attempting to destabilize the opposition through financial inducements and political promises.
“Let me caution my colleagues or those of us who want William Ruto to be one‑term,” Gachagua said. “Anyone who will abandon the one‑term movement at the behest of President William Ruto for purposes of financial gain or promises of positions will go alone and will be isolated.”
Gachagua alleged that the government is deploying “massive resources” to create rifts within opposition ranks, starting with the Mount Kenya region, a key voting bloc, due to its size and influence.
“William Ruto has written out a very elaborate plan to divide the opposition and he is using every trick in the book,” he added.
Despite his warning, Gachagua expressed confidence that his co‑principals remain steadfast. “Talking to my colleagues, they are committed to sticking to the cause and will not let the people of Kenya down. I am persuaded that the leaders I work with are strong and are committed to a united opposition so that we have one candidate to face William Ruto in the next election.”
The coalition, which brings together key political figures including Martha Karua (People’s Liberation Party), Eugene Wamalwa (DAP‑K), Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper), and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, has vowed to field a single presidential candidate to challenge Ruto in 2027.
Gachagua said he would fully support whichever leader is chosen to carry the coalition’s flag, underscoring his focus on building a united front.
The former deputy president is on an international tour aimed at rallying diaspora support for the opposition agenda and strengthening links with Kenyans abroad. He has promised that the alliance will unveil its presidential flag bearer “in due course” as the country gears up for the 2027 polls
Written By Rodney Mbua
