Nairobi, November 2, 2026
Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi has accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of political bullying and double-speak, warning that internal divisions within the United Opposition could derail its chances of winning the presidency in 2027.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, November 2, the former Attorney General questioned whether Gachagua’s push for tripartite political arrangements served the opposition’s shared ambition or individual leaders’ interests. He argued that no single individual or community could claim ownership of the opposition or the presidency.
“Mr Gachagua must understand one fundamental truth: No Kenyan President has ever been made by one community alone. The presidency is won through national consensus, strategic alliances and the ability to unite Kenyans across ethnic and regional boundaries,” Muturi said.
He added: “I wish to put the United Opposition on notice: the current political trajectory being pursued by Mr Gachagua raises serious questions about his commitment to the collective presidential ambition of the Wantam movement. His persistent attempts to undermine established cooperation and his insistence on tripartite political arrangements risk creating the impression that he is preparing for post-election political bargaining rather than prioritising the ultimate prize: State House.”
Muturi asked pointedly: “Is the objective to win the presidency or to control MPs, legislators and devolved units while sacrificing the bigger national ambition?” He insisted that a tripartite arrangement was “not a magic formula for State House” and that fragmenting an opposition that needs unity raised serious questions about its political direction.
“Let it be clear: No individual owns the United Opposition, and no community has a monopoly on Kenya’s presidency. Political partnerships must be built on mutual respect, not ultimatums, political bullying or supremacy contests,” he stated.
The remarks highlight growing tensions within the United Opposition as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election. Muturi’s statement comes amid ongoing debates over coalition strategy, with some leaders also raising concerns about the need for a unified national approach to challenge President William Ruto.