Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah has expressed his willingness to work with President William Ruto, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, or former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in the 2027 General Election. However, he emphasized that any partnership must be based on agreed-upon issues and direct discussions. Wajackoyah made these remarks during an interview on K24 TV's breakfast show, clarifying that his openness to collaboration should not be misconstrued as abandoning his presidential ambitions.
Wajackoyah stressed that he still intends to contest the presidency and wants voters to decide who should lead the country in the upcoming election. He made it clear that he will not be part of any arrangement without being directly consulted on its structure, goals, or terms. The Roots Party leader garnered 61,969 votes in the 2022 presidential election, representing 0.44% of the valid votes cast, and believes his previous bid gives him a basis to demand recognition in discussions involving opposition leaders.
The Roots Party leader also expressed disappointment with Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, saying he had expected the former Vice President to contact him personally amid ongoing political consultations. Wajackoyah questioned why he would be expected to join a political arrangement without first being consulted on its structure or objectives. He described Kalonzo as a friend and expected a personal call to discuss potential collaborations.
Wajackoyah's position in the current political discussions is informed by his performance in the 2022 presidential election, where he finished third. He argued that his previous presidential bid gives him a basis to demand recognition in discussions involving opposition leaders. Wajackoyah believes that, sequentially, he would be the opposition leader and should be given the respect he deserves.
Wajackoyah also questioned former President Uhuru Kenyatta's recent remarks about the disputed outcome of the 2022 presidential election. He stated that evidence of alleged irregularities should have been presented immediately after the election. The Roots Party leader emphasized that his willingness to cooperate with other political figures would depend on shared issues and policies, rather than an arrangement whose main purpose was opposing Ruto.
Wajackoyah pointed to his past relationship with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying he could have considered working with him had he remained alive. He mentioned that if Raila was still alive, he probably could have made a coalition with him. For now, Wajackoyah will retain his independent political position while remaining open to discussions with other leaders ahead of the 2027 election.
The 2027 General Election is shaping up to be a significant event, with political parties and leaders positioning themselves for the polls. Wajackoyah's comments come as various stakeholders continue to hold consultations over possible partnerships and coalition arrangements. The Roots Party leader's stance on collaboration and his presidential ambitions will likely be closely watched in the coming months.
Key points
- Wajackoyah is open to working with President William Ruto, former Interior CS Fred Matiang'i, or former DP Rigathi Gachagua in the 2027 General Election.
- Wajackoyah still intends to contest the presidency and wants voters to decide who should lead the country.
- Any partnership, according to Wajackoyah, must be based on agreed-upon issues and direct discussions.
