Democratic for Citizen Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed reports of a widening rift between himself and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, maintaining that the opposition remains united as the country gears up for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an interview on KTN on October 6, Gachagua said there were ongoing attempts by certain individuals to sow discord within the opposition through divide-and-rule tactics.
“Some individuals are trying to influence opposition leaders individually so that a third force is created to divide the opposition,” Gachagua said.
The former deputy president warned that any leader attempting to break away to form a new political outfit would face rejection from the electorate.
“If anyone leaves the united opposition to form a third force, Kenyans will not accept it,” he stated, adding that “in 2027, whoever is chosen by the united opposition to face William Ruto will become the sixth President of Kenya.”
His comments come amid political realignments and speculation of friction within the opposition, particularly following Matiang’i’s absence from several joint meetings attended by key figures such as Martha Karua, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Gachagua.
On the same occasions, Matiang’i met with youth and opinion leaders in Lanet, Nakuru County, and later attended a funeral in Rongai alongside former Chief Justice David Maraga — fueling talk of disunity.
However, Matiang’i also moved to quell the rumours, acknowledging that while coordination among opposition leaders takes time, unity remains the ultimate goal.
“Aligning visions and perspectives is a weighty issue. Our patience, perseverance, and patriotism will be tested, but we must overcome temptations and work together as expected by Kenyans,” he said.
Matiang’i, who has declared interest in the presidency under the Jubilee Party, said every leader has the freedom to choose their political platform, adding that differences in opinion should not be mistaken for division.
“We are in a democratic environment. No leader can choose a party for another leader. Differences will always exist,” he stated.
He revealed that the Jubilee Party has reignited its membership recruitment drive, aiming to revitalize its grassroots presence and restore its former influence under retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.
“We have reignited the drive for mass registration of members to the Jubilee Party. We want to make the party vibrant and speak for the people now and in the future,” Matiang’i said.
