Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has defended the Opposition’s pace in selecting a presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election, saying the coalition is focused on making the right decision rather than rushing the process.
Speaking on Wednesday, August 5, Gachagua dismissed concerns that the Opposition was taking too long to settle on a flagbearer, insisting there was still sufficient time before the next General Election.
The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader said he opposed proposals by some Opposition principals to begin coalition negotiations through boardroom meetings in Nairobi, arguing that each party leader should first strengthen support in their political strongholds before discussing a joint ticket.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Photo: Courtesy.
According to Gachagua, political parties are built by mobilising supporters on the ground, not through closed-door meetings.
He maintained that coalition talks would only be meaningful after each principal had demonstrated the level of support they command.
He said the eventual presidential flagbearer should be selected based on the number of votes each leader is able to consolidate, noting that voter mobilisation would be a key consideration during the selection process.
Gachagua also cited the 2002 General Election, noting that the Opposition settled on the late former President Mwai Kibaki as its presidential candidate just over two months before the polls, suggesting there was no need to rush the current process.
He added that he was still focused on consolidating support for his party and encouraged other Opposition leaders, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, to strengthen their political bases ahead of any coalition negotiations.
Gachagua maintained that discussions on forming a coalition would only begin after each Opposition leader had demonstrated their electoral strength.
