Kenyan Member of Parliament Anthony Kibagendi has publicly questioned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's authority to dictate terms to the opposition. On November 2, 2026, Kibagendi revealed that Gachagua demanded a 50 percent share of government during negotiations with leaders of the Linda Mwananchi movement at his Wamunyoro residence. This move has sparked controversy, with Kibagendi accusing Gachagua of attempting to dominate power-sharing talks ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The discussions at Gachagua's Nyeri residence involved Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other key opposition figures. Kibagendi expressed concerns that Gachagua's actions may undermine the opposition's efforts to present a cohesive front against President William Ruto. He argued that several leaders had already built the opposition movement and challenged the Kenya Kwanza administration long before Gachagua joined their ranks following his impeachment.
Kibagendi also recalled a 2023 development meeting with Gusii lawmakers, where Gachagua allegedly questioned why opposition MPs expected national government funding while opposing the administration. According to Kibagendi, Gachagua told him to seek infrastructure and road development for Kitutu Chache South from the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. This incident reportedly cemented Kibagendi's decision to challenge the Kenya Kwanza administration over policies such as the housing levy and regional development imbalances.
Furthermore, Kibagendi accused Gachagua of trying to isolate prominent opposition figures who hold independent political positions. He cited former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, former CS Peter Munya, former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro as examples. Kibagendi emphasized that no individual holds exclusive ownership over the United Opposition and called for mutual respect across all member parties.
In a recent media interview on Inooro FM, Gachagua suggested that he could form a government exclusively alongside Sifuna and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka. However, Kibagendi rejected this proposal, warning that excluding key stakeholders undermines efforts to present a cohesive opposition front. He stressed the importance of unity in the opposition to challenge President Ruto in 2027.
Kibagendi emphasized that the opposition's goal should be to get the current administration out and make Kenya better. He expressed concerns that continued infighting and individual power plays will erode the opposition's momentum and weaken its challenge to President Ruto in 2027. The controversy surrounding Gachagua's power-sharing demand has sparked debate within the Kenyan political landscape.
The issue has significant implications for the 2027 General Election, as the opposition seeks to present a united front against President Ruto. Kibagendi's criticism of Gachagua's actions highlights the challenges facing the opposition in achieving this goal. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the opposition will navigate these internal conflicts and present a cohesive challenge to the current administration.
Key points
- Kibagendi questions Gachagua's authority to dictate terms to the opposition.
- Gachagua demands 50% share of government in opposition talks.
- Kibagendi warns that excluding key stakeholders undermines opposition unity.
