Fo0rmer deputy president and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has called on the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to maintain close cooperation with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, warning against political realignments that could weaken opposition influence in Nairobi.
He delivered the remarks on Sunday during a church service in Kasarani, where he addressed emerging concerns about efforts by President William Ruto’s allies to woo Kalonzo.
Gachagua said senior figures within the Kenya Kwanza administration had approached Kalonzo with invitations to join their camp, adding that he believed the Wiper leader would remain committed to the opposition.
Referring to Kalonzo directly, he stated that the former vice president “cannot betray the people of Kenya,” according to his remarks during the service.
The former deputy president used the platform to outline a broader strategy for opposition parties in Nairobi ahead of the 2027 General Election.
He said DCP, Wiper, and other opposition outfits should avoid competing against one another in areas where one party has a clear foothold.
Gachagua argued that coordinated campaigns would give the opposition a stronger chance of capturing seats in the capital, which has historically leaned toward coalition-based voting patterns.
He explained that Wiper commands significant support in Nairobi, noting that the party has traditionally worked alongside ODM in both national and county-level politics.
In his address, he stated that DCP would back Wiper in its strongholds, while seeking reciprocal support in areas where DCP enjoys greater influence.
The objective, he said, was to prevent what he termed “friendly fights” between opposition candidates.
Gachagua further urged ODM to maintain dialogue with Kalonzo, describing the Wiper leader as a long-standing partner of the party.
He suggested that distancing themselves from Kalonzo while he was being courted by the government side could undermine their political standing.
His comments underscored growing concerns about shifting alliances as the country moves closer to another election cycle.
Nairobi has long played a central role in shaping national political momentum, with coalition building often determining election outcomes in the city’s competitive constituencies.
Gachagua’s remarks appeared aimed at reinforcing unity among opposition parties amid increased political activity by the ruling coalition.
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