Opposition leaders used the burial of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s elder sister in Nyeri County on Saturday to push for a united front ahead of the August 2027 General Election.
Speaking at the funeral of Eunice Nyangari Gachagua in Kieni constituency, figures from rival political formations called for cooperation to challenge President William Ruto, even though they have yet to agree on a formal coalition or a joint presidential candidate.
Those in attendance included Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Siaya Governor James Orengo, former Chief Justice David Maraga, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga.
Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), used the occasion to offer an olive branch to Mt Kenya politicians who have aligned with rival camps, while warning that voters would reject anyone who continues to work against the region’s interests.
"I want to appeal to everybody... Those who betrayed our community, we have forgiven you. Return home, come and unite with the people and they will forgive you," Gachagua said, adding that religious leaders had advised him to seek reconciliation.
He compared next year’s political contest to the Mau Mau independence struggle, stating that residents would rely on voter cards and ballots rather than weapons.
