Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has set the stage for a major political showdown by declaring his intent to form a new political party that will rally Mt Kenya voters and directly challenge President William Ruto in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a highly energized rally in Juja, Kiambu County, Gachagua stated that the new party would be launched this week and serve as a vehicle to consolidate regional power that, he claims, has been deliberately fragmented under the current administration.
“We will unveil our political party this week. It will be a celebration for all who believe in unity and regional strength,” Gachagua told his supporters.
Though he withheld the party’s name and official launch date, Gachagua emphasized that the movement’s goal is to restore Mt Kenya’s influence in national politics and prevent what he described as “strategic fragmentation” orchestrated by President Ruto’s allies.
Gachagua’s 2027 Strategy: Unite and Resist
Gachagua, who was removed from office in late 2024 after a controversial impeachment on charges of corruption and ethnic incitement—charges he still vehemently denies—has framed his new party as a response to what he sees as betrayal and marginalization.
Accusing Ruto’s administration of fostering division through the creation of splinter parties, Gachagua vowed, “You will not divide us again. This region stands united.”
His political messaging has been especially resonant among Mt Kenya voters who feel their support for Ruto in 2022 has yielded little in return.
Appeal to Youth and Gen Z Voters
Addressing the frustrations of Kenya’s youth, Gachagua made a direct appeal to Generation Z, urging them to register for national identification cards and voter registration ahead of 2027.
“Gen Z will be the saviour of this nation. You have the power to decide Kenya’s future,” he declared, pointing to the high cost of living, inflation, and unpopular government reforms like the Social Health Authority.
He stressed that his political push is driven by the people’s will, not personal vendettas: “This is not opposition for the sake of it. Kenyans know that for the economy to heal and corruption to end, Ruto must go.”
Mt Kenya’s Loyalty in Question
As the former DP continues to draw large crowds in Mt Kenya, political analysts say the region could become a critical battleground in 2027. Many residents express disillusionment with the current administration, feeling neglected despite their strong electoral backing in 2022.
While it remains to be seen whether Gachagua’s party can sustain momentum and unify the region behind a single candidate, the early signs suggest he may pose a serious threat to President Ruto’s re-election campaign.