Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed allegations that former President Uhuru Kenyatta is financing the opposition. Speaking to Kenyans living in Marlborough, Massachusetts, on Saturday evening, Gachagua said his party does not need sponsorship to mobilise Kenyans ahead of the next General Election. He emphasized that the opposition's focus should be on building an effective political strategy and reaching voters.
Gachagua stated that neither he nor his political associates had received financial support from Uhuru Kenyatta. "I have never received a single shilling from him," he said. The DCP leader argued that the opposition would only require enough resources to facilitate basic activities such as food and travel, and that voters should not be bribed to support a political cause.
Gachagua's remarks come amid continued debate over Uhuru Kenyatta's possible influence within opposition circles and allegations that he could be supporting efforts to challenge President William Ruto's administration. However, Gachagua said Uhuru Kenyatta could have a different role as an elder and mediator if political disagreements within the opposition become difficult to resolve.
The DCP leader criticised President Ruto and his allies for continuing to attack Uhuru Kenyatta, arguing that the former president is retired and will not be a candidate in the next election. "We have told him please stop attacking Uhuru Kenyatta, he has said he is not your competitor, he is retired, he will not be on the ballot with you, why are you bashing him?" he asked.
Gachagua maintained that the opposition's priority should be mobilising Kenyans rather than relying on wealthy political sponsors. He said the party's campaign would focus on grassroots mobilisation and persuading voters, rather than financial inducements. This approach, he believes, will allow the opposition to connect with citizens and gain their support.
By positioning the opposition as capable of mounting a political campaign through organisation and voter mobilisation, Gachagua aims to reduce dependence on established political financiers. He emphasized that the political contest should ultimately be determined by citizens and their choices at the ballot, rather than the financial resources available to competing political formations.
Gachagua's comments reflect his efforts to promote a more grassroots-driven approach to politics, focusing on citizen mobilisation and engagement rather than relying on financial backing from influential figures. The DCP leader's stance may shape the opposition's strategy in the lead-up to Kenya's next General Election.
Key points
- Gachagua denies receiving financial support from Uhuru Kenyatta for opposition efforts.
- The DCP leader advocates for a grassroots-driven approach to politics, focusing on citizen mobilisation and engagement.
- Gachagua criticises President Ruto and his allies for attacking Uhuru Kenyatta, who is not a competitor in the next election.
