Former Deputy President and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has raised concerns over Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s plan to announce the United Opposition’s presidential candidate in the first quarter of 2026.
Gachagua insists that unveiling the candidate too early could limit the coalition’s ability to consolidate support and accommodate other potential contenders.
“If we announce our candidate too early, our candidate will be confused completely. We will declare our flagbearer a few months before the election,” Gachagua said in a statement shared on social media.
He emphasized that delaying the announcement would allow the alliance to attract like-minded parties and unify opposition forces ahead of the polls.
Gachagua noted that the coalition must consider other figures interested in the presidency, including Edwin Sifuna, the secretary-general of the Orange Democratic Movement, and veteran politician Oburu Oginga.
“If we do it now, we might exclude people like our brother Edwin Sifuna. Even Mzee Oburu Oginga has expressed interest in running. We need to hear from everyone,” he said.
He further revealed that some government officials had privately indicated their willingness to join the opposition at the right moment, reinforcing his argument for a strategic delay.
“There are people in the government who speak to me at night and say they will decamp at the right time. We have to wait for them before unveiling our lineup,” Gachagua added.
The disagreement highlights emerging tensions within the United Opposition as parties prepare for the 2027 general elections.
While Kalonzo appears to favor an early announcement to rally voters, Gachagua advocates for a more measured approach to ensure a broader and more inclusive alliance