- Rigathi Gachagua says opposition unity is strong but not without challenges
- He points to timing, selection method, and party interests as key pressure points
- The coalition agrees on backing one presidential candidate against Ruto
- Gachagua defends delaying the candidate announcement
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has revealed that talks within the united opposition are progressing well, but some disagreements are expected as leaders plan for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Monday, the former Deputy President said the coalition is firmly agreed on one goal: producing a single presidential candidate to face President William Ruto. However, he admitted that reaching that final decision may involve tough internal discussions.
Gachagua outlined three main areas where differing opinions could arise among opposition leaders. These include when to announce the presidential candidate, how the flagbearer will be chosen, and how political parties within the coalition will be handled.
He noted that such debates are normal in a broad alliance and should not be mistaken for division.
Despite the possible disagreements, Gachagua stressed that the opposition leaders are united on the most important issues standing behind one candidate.
He said all coalition partners have shown good faith and are committed to settling on a single name through consultation and agreement.
Gachagua strongly defended the decision to delay naming the presidential candidate, saying the coalition has enough time to make the right choice.
To support his argument, he pointed to the 2002 General Election, when the opposition settled on Mwai Kibaki barely two months before voting day, a move that still led to victory.
According to Gachagua, patience allows the coalition to build momentum at the right time instead of acting under pressure.
The DCP leader explained that the current priority is strengthening individual parties and mobilising supporters across the country.
He said each leader must consolidate support in their strongholds before the coalition agrees on who will carry the presidential ticket.
Gachagua also assured supporters that all leaders have pledged to stay in the coalition even if they are not picked as the presidential candidate.
He said there is a shared understanding that unity is key and that no one will abandon the team after the final decision is made.
Gachagua’s remarks come at a time when a clear difference has emerged between him and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka on when the opposition should unveil its candidate.
While speaking earlier in Githurai, Kiambu County, Gachagua warned against early announcements, saying it could expose the chosen candidate to state pressure, harassment, or legal troubles.
He suggested the candidate should be revealed towards the end of the year or early next year.
On his part, Kalonzo Musyoka has maintained that the opposition should name its presidential candidate by the first quarter of 2026.
The former Vice President said early identification would give the coalition enough time to campaign and sell the candidate to voters ahead of 2027.
As consultations continue, the united opposition faces the task of balancing internal harmony with political strategy.
