Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has criticized members of the United Opposition who he said expect to secure the coalition's presidential ticket without working to build support. Speaking to a delegation from Nyeri at his Wamunyoro home on Tuesday, Gachagua acknowledged disagreements within the opposition but dismissed them as a threat to its resolve. He emphasized that leaders differed over how to pursue the presidential nomination.
Gachagua stated that the coalition would not award its ticket based on a candidate's prominence, but rather on their ability to earn support and build a substantial voter base. He stressed that a candidate's profile and political experience would count for little without a strong following. "Mimi nimewaambia ata ukuwe na na umaarufu kiasi gani. Kura lazima utafute. Haiwezipangiwa kwa mahoteli. Haiwezipangiwa kwa ma TV," Gachagua said.
The former deputy president argued that politics is a game of numbers and that the science of politics is numbers. He noted that the coalition is anticipating 26 million voters and that a candidate must persuade at least 50% plus one to win. Gachagua emphasized that aspirants must earn the ticket and that any administration formed after a 2027 election victory should be built on merit rather than popularity.
Gachagua added that those who join the government should share similar values and ideas. He stated that a candidate's popularity on social media or their physical appearance would not translate to votes. Several opposition figures have declared interest in the presidency, including Jubilee's Fred Matiang'i, Wiper's Kalonzo Musyoka, Linda Mwananchi's Edwin Sifuna, and PLP's Martha Karua.
Gachagua's comments come as the opposition prepares for the 2027 presidential election. He emphasized that the coalition's goal is to win the election and form a government that is built on merit. Gachagua's stance on the issue has sparked debate among opposition supporters and rivals.
The issue of who will secure the opposition's presidential ticket has been a contentious one, with several figures vying for the position. Gachagua's comments are seen as a swipe at his rivals, who he believes are not putting in enough effort to build support. The opposition's strategy for the 2027 election remains unclear.
Gachagua's call for opposition members to focus on building support and earning the ticket has resonated with some supporters. However, others have criticized his stance, arguing that it is too early to start campaigning. The debate is expected to continue as the opposition prepares for the 2027 presidential election.
Key points
- Gachagua emphasizes that opposition members must earn the presidential ticket by building support and a substantial voter base.
- The coalition's presidential ticket will not be awarded based on a candidate's prominence, but rather on their ability to earn support.
- Gachagua stresses that politics is a game of numbers and that a candidate must persuade at least 50% plus one to win.
