Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna to assert his political influence in Western Kenya by confronting critics attacking his leadership. Gachagua singled out President William Ruto's aide Farouk Kibet, questioning why he had repeatedly attacked Sifuna without facing resistance from the senator's supporters in the region. This challenge comes as Sifuna seeks to position himself for the 2027 presidential race.
Gachagua addressed Linda Mwananchi supporters, stating that he had challenged Sifuna to demonstrate that he had consolidated support in Western Kenya. He argued that claims of political influence must be backed by action. Gachagua cited an instance where Sifuna claimed to have locked down Western Kenya but questioned how this was possible when Farouk continued to insult him daily.
Gachagua's remarks also targeted Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli, who has questioned Sifuna's readiness to contest the presidency. Atwoli argued that Sifuna needs to build a stronger political network before seeking the country's top seat. Gachagua dismissed arguments that Sifuna was too young to seek the presidency, citing the Constitution's age requirement of 18 and above.
The former Deputy President took aim at Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, accusing him of selling his Amani National Congress (ANC) party to President Ruto's camp for Sh20 million. Gachagua claimed he personally participated in negotiations surrounding the deal, advising Mudavadi to close the party and remain in government.
Gachagua also criticised National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, accusing him and Mudavadi of failing to deliver on promises made to Western Kenya in exchange for political support for Ruto. The agreement included Wetang'ula becoming Speaker, Mudavadi being appointed Prime Cabinet Secretary, and the region receiving 1,000 kilometres of new tarmac roads.
Gachagua portrayed the emerging cooperation between himself, Sifuna, and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka as a political alliance capable of challenging Ruto in the 2027 General Election. He claimed that Sifuna had retained over 80 per cent of ODM supporters, while he had taken away 70 per cent of Ruto's supporters after leaving government.
Gachagua declared that he still harbours presidential ambitions but is prepared to support either Kalonzo or Sifuna if the coalition settles on them. He promised to deploy his political networks to campaign for Sifuna should the senator secure the opposition's presidential ticket, prioritising unity over individual ambitions.
Key points
- Gachagua challenges Sifuna to assert influence in Western Kenya
- Gachagua criticises Mudavadi and Wetang'ula over failed promises
- Gachagua forms alliance with Sifuna and Kalonzo for 2027 elections
