KAJIADO, Kenya- DCP Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has formally declared his intention to run for president under the United Alternative Government, while seeking to calm fears of divisions within the opposition.
Speaking during a church service at PCEA Illasit Church, the former deputy president said his candidature should not be interpreted as a threat to opposition unity.
He acknowledged that multiple opposition figures are currently building their profiles ahead of the 2027 race but insisted they would ultimately rally behind a single candidate to face President William Ruto.
“Each of us is seeking credibility and popularity at this stage, but we will agree on one candidate. I will fully support whoever is chosen,” he said.
Gachagua pledged not to be a source of division, positioning himself instead as a team player within the broader opposition movement.
Addressing residents of Kajiado South, Gachagua promised to revive stalled infrastructure projects, including the Illasit–Taveta road, accusing President Ruto of initiating parts of the project for “selfish interests.”
His remarks form part of a wider three-day political tour of Kajiado County, where he is seeking to consolidate support among the Maa community.
Defence of Uhuru Kenyatta
Gachagua also came to the defence of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, following recent criticism from leaders aligned to the ruling coalition.
He urged Kenya Kwanza politicians to respect the retired leader, arguing that he has a constitutional right to participate in public discourse.
“Uhuru Kenyatta deserves respect. He served this country and did a commendable job,” Gachagua said, in a thinly veiled critique of the current administration.
The DCP leader further criticised President Ruto for involving some Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)-linked Cabinet Secretaries in what he described as partisan political structures, including the Central Management Committee.
He warned that such moves risk weakening political parties, arguing that strong and independent parties are essential for a functioning democracy.
