Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has called on opposition leaders to intensify voter mobilization efforts to oust President William Ruto in the 2027 polls. Speaking at his Wamunyoro home, Gachagua emphasized that mobilizing 18 million votes was crucial to achieving this goal. He stressed that this could not be achieved through hotel meetings, press conferences, or writing letters, but rather through grassroots mobilization.
Gachagua, who was the former Deputy President, expressed concern that opposition activities had dwindled since he left the country. However, with his return, he believes the opposition is now more lively. He welcomed former Kitui governor Charity Ngilu, a key player in the National Alliance of Rainbow Coalition (NARC) in the 2002 polls. Gachagua credited Ngilu with sharing her winning strategy, which he believes will be instrumental in securing victory in 2027.
The DCP leader responded to claims of bullying by Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi and Jubilee leader Fred Matiang'i. Gachagua clarified that he was only telling them the truth about the need for a robust presidential campaign. He urged them to match their media appearances with grassroots mobilization efforts. According to Gachagua, the 2027 Presidential contest will be about votes, and all leaders must work to secure more votes than Ruto.
Gachagua emphasized that discussing numbers was crucial to achieving their goal. He expressed confidence in his ability to mobilize votes, having played a key role in delivering the Presidency in 2022. Gachagua stated that his work was to ensure Ruto's ouster and that he was committed to the opposition producing one candidate to challenge Ruto in the 2027 polls.
The former Deputy President praised Ngilu's experience and wisdom, which he believes will be invaluable in the opposition's quest for victory. Gachagua and Ngilu discussed strategies for the 2027 polls, with Gachagua expressing optimism about their chances. He also acknowledged that Kenyans were aware of leaders who had been working hard and those who had not.
Gachagua dismissed claims that his focus was on chasing Ruto and giving the opposition a flagbearer. He stated that his primary goal was to ensure Ruto's ouster and that he was not seeking to benefit himself. According to Gachagua, if he had helped Ruto become president, he could also help himself.
The DCP leader concluded that there was no formula for sending Ruto home other than mobilizing votes. He expressed confidence in his ability to lead the opposition to victory and urged other leaders to join him in this effort. Gachagua emphasized that the opposition must work together to secure more votes than Ruto in the 2027 polls.
Key points
- Gachagua urges opposition leaders to mobilize 18 million votes to oust President Ruto in 2027.
