Gachagua responds to opposition leaders on strengthening parties

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called for the strengthening of political parties, particularly in the Mt. Kenya region, saying it is a crucial step toward building a united national opposition.

Gachagua said his Democracy for Citizen Party (DCP) is steadily expanding through grassroots mobilization and encouraged other regional leaders, including those in the opposition, to strengthen their own political parties rather than criticize DCP’s growing influence.

He dismissed claims that he is attempting to weaken or overshadow other political outfits, arguing that a credible coalition to challenge the current administration can only emerge after individual parties have established strong regional support.

Responding to recent political disagreements involving former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, former Meru Governor Peter Munya, and former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti, Gachagua urged the leaders to prioritize grassroots mobilization instead of focusing on DCP’s progress.

Consolidate Before Coalition Talks

Gachagua argued that coalition negotiations should be based on the political strength of individual parties, saying regional influence and voter numbers are key factors in determining leadership within a united opposition.

“There is no hurry to name a presidential candidate,” Gachagua said, citing the 2002 General Election, when the opposition settled on Mwai Kibaki as its presidential candidate just 73 days before the polls.

He said political parties should prepare to compete fairly for elective positions across the country, while emphasizing the need for the opposition to rally behind a single presidential candidate when the appropriate time comes.

The remarks come amid increasing political realignments as leaders position themselves ahead of the next General Election, with discussions on coalition-building expected to intensify in the coming months.