Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has expressed willingness to support another candidate from the United Alternative Government if he is not selected as the opposition's presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election. Gachagua hopes to be named the opposition's flag bearer to challenge President William Ruto but may back Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka or Linda Mwananchi Movement leader Edwin Sifuna if either is chosen. He made these remarks at an event where The Equitable Party rebranded as the Linda Mwananchi Party.
Gachagua's comments come as opposition leaders strategize on how to remove Ruto from office. He urged Sifuna's supporters to give opposition leaders time to agree on a single presidential candidate. Gachagua also criticized the United Democratic Alliance and Orange Democratic Movement, citing that his and Sifuna's departure from the parties weakened Ruto's chances of winning the 2027 election. He suggested he could take over as director of the presidential campaign.
Kalonzo Musyoka also pledged to support Sifuna if he is selected as the United Opposition's presidential candidate. Musyoka stated that the coalition remains united and that Sifuna could potentially become the sixth president of Kenya. He urged supporters to remain patient as opposition leaders continue consultations ahead of the election. Musyoka requested an invitation to the Linda Mwananchi Party's National Delegates Conference, where Sifuna is expected to be endorsed as its presidential candidate.
Edwin Sifuna outlined some of his proposed economic policies, which include abolishing taxes on fuel and electricity and scrapping the housing levy. He stated that if elected president, his administration would cut Sh500 billion from the government budget and return the money to Kenyans. Sifuna claimed the savings would come from reducing government waste and excessive allocations to State House.
Sifuna's proposed economic policies also involve addressing persistent strikes by public-sector workers over collective bargaining agreements. He assured Kenyans that the Linda Mwananchi Party has a comprehensive plan to cut wastage in government and extravagance at State House within the first 100 days of taking office. Gachagua and Musyoka's statements demonstrate the opposition's efforts to present a united front against President Ruto.
The Linda Mwananchi Party's rebranding and Sifuna's presidential bid have garnered attention from various political stakeholders. Gachagua's attendance at the rebranding event and his expression of support for Sifuna or Musyoka indicate a possible shift in the opposition's strategy. As the 2027 General Election approaches, Kenyan politics continues to evolve with various leaders vying for position.
The opposition's plans to challenge President Ruto in the 2027 election are becoming clearer. With Gachagua, Musyoka, and Sifuna's statements, it is evident that the opposition is working to present a strong and united front. The Linda Mwananchi Party's National Delegates Conference, scheduled for November 13, is expected to provide further insight into Sifuna's presidential bid and the opposition's strategy.
Key points
- Gachagua may drop presidential ambitions to support Sifuna or Musyoka if not selected as opposition candidate.
