NAIROBI, Kenya- In an unexpected twist of Kenya’s political drama, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has emerged from the shadows of impeachment to reclaim influence, particularly in his vote-rich Mount Kenya region.
This resurgence, marked by a groundswell of grassroots support and strategic alliances, positions Gachagua as a formidable force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Elected alongside President William Ruto in 2022, Gachagua’s initial tenure as Deputy President was marked by staunch loyalty to the President and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.
However, their relationship soured dramatically, culminating in a bitter fallout that saw Ruto mobilize state machinery—including support from the opposition—to engineer Gachagua’s impeachment.
His removal and the subsequent appointment of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kindiki Kithure as Deputy President were seen as a calculated move to consolidate power and neutralize dissent within the administration.
For most politicians, such a public ousting would spell the end of a career. Yet, for Gachagua, it marked the beginning of a political renaissance.
Despite being sidelined from government, Gachagua’s popularity in Mount Kenya has only grown.
The region, which played a pivotal role in electing the Ruto-Gachagua ticket, has become increasingly disenchanted with the ruling administration.
Economic struggles, unfulfilled campaign promises, and perceived neglect have fueled this discontent, creating a vacuum that Gachagua has deftly filled.
A section of leaders from the region, including current and former elected officials, are rallying behind him.
His homes have become hubs of political activity, with meetings aimed at charting a new course for Mount Kenya.
Gachagua has openly stated his intention to provide direction for the region, signaling plans to launch a new political party that could reshape Kenya’s political landscape.
Gachagua’s ambitions extend beyond Mount Kenya.
He is actively courting leaders from across the political spectrum to build a broad coalition capable of challenging Ruto’s administration in 2027.
Among those he is seeking partnerships with are Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa of the Democratic Action Party (DAP).
Such alliances could position Gachagua as a kingmaker, with the ability to influence the outcome of the next presidential election.
His pivot from loyalist to opposition figure has been fueled by a desire to make Ruto a one-term president.
This bold declaration has resonated with many Kenyans dissatisfied with the current government, bolstering Gachagua’s stature as a voice of dissent.
Rather than diminishing his influence, Gachagua’s impeachment has become a rallying point for his supporters.
It has allowed him to recast himself as a victim of political machinations, a narrative that resonates deeply in Mount Kenya.
By stepping outside the confines of government, Gachagua has also gained the freedom to critique the administration and champion the issues that matter most to his constituents.
This transformation is reminiscent of other Kenyan politicians who have used adversity to their advantage.
Observers say Gachagua’s ability to turn a perceived setback into a political opportunity underscores his resilience and strategic acumen.
As the 2027 elections approach, Gachagua’s moves are being closely watched.
Meanwhile, President Ruto faces the challenge of managing an increasingly divided political landscape.
