Kenyans React as Gachagua Says What They Are Waiting for Ruto to Do Before Naming Flagbearer

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has taken a fresh swipe at President William Ruto, claiming that the opposition is waiting for the Head of State to settle his running-mate question before naming its own presidential flagbearer.

Gachagua’s remarks come as political leaders intensify consultations ahead of the August 2027 General Election, with the united opposition yet to agree on the person who will challenge Ruto.

The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader has maintained that opposition leaders should not rush to announce their presidential candidate before building a stronger alliance.

Speaking about the race, Gachagua said Ruto was struggling to identify a suitable running mate, adding that the opposition was watching developments before making its own decision.

His comments come amid growing debate over the leadership of the opposition camp, where several prominent figures have expressed interest in the country’s top seat.

Among those positioning themselves are Gachagua, Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who has declared his presidential ambitions through the Linda Mwananchi Movement.

On Monday, October 26, Gachagua hosted Kalonzo at his Wamunyoro home in Nyeri County as the two leaders discussed plans to unite their political bases and support one opposition candidate.

However, the meeting came amid differences over when the presidential flagbearer should be announced. Kalonzo’s team reportedly favours settling the matter as early as December, while Gachagua’s allies want the process delayed.

The disagreement highlights the challenge facing the opposition as leaders attempt to balance their personal ambitions with the need to present a united front.

Meanwhile, Ruto’s choice of running mate is also expected to attract attention as political parties prepare for the next election.

Although Gachagua has expressed confidence in the opposition’s unity efforts, no final presidential candidate has been announced.

Will the opposition agree on one flagbearer before the 2027 campaigns gather momentum?

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