Didmus Barasa, the Member of Parliament for Kimilili, has suggested that the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) may work with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in the future.
Speaking at AIC Kapsang in Ziwa Ward, Uasin Gishu County, Barasa explained that during elections, political leaders are sometimes forced to collaborate with individuals they need, rather than those they necessarily like.
The outspoken lawmaker pointed to the 2027 campaign period, where he indicated that the ruling coalition could revisit the idea of working with Gachagua.
He reminded the audience that Gachagua’s impeachment was due to the perception that he wasn’t suitable for the Deputy President role, but Barasa left open the possibility of him returning to the party and even being assigned a position.
Barasa expressed optimism that by May 2027, Gachagua would have undergone necessary rehabilitation and gained valuable lessons that would make him eligible to rejoin the UDA.
His remarks came in response to reports of a new coalition forming to challenge President William Ruto in the upcoming 2027 presidential elections.
“Whatever our opponents are planning, we will only need one or two meetings to dismantle their plans. Elections aren’t always about the people you like; sometimes it’s about the people you need,” Barasa stated. “If we need him, even Rigathi—who we once impeached—could return.
Didmus Barasa.
He may have been unsuitable to serve as Deputy President, but he could still be a voter and a member of our coalition.
He’s undergone some rehabilitation and is learning, and I’m sure the people and the church are praying for him.”
Barasa added, “We’re hopeful that by May 2027, Gachagua will have reformed, and we will bring him back into UDA and find a new role for him when the time comes.”
