Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sent a bold message to ODM party leader Raila Odinga urging him to consider joining his political vehicle to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 General Elections
Speaking at a worship service at the Gospel Confirmation Center in Machakos, the outspoken former DP did not hold back in his criticism of the president, asserting that Ruto was losing grip on his influence ahead of the next polls.
In a bold tirade aimed at Ruto, Gachagua asserted that the president's political survival heavily hinged on Raila, saying, "The President's current life support is Raila Odinga. If we switch it off, it will be the end."
Gachagua further appealed to the ODM leader to align with his camp but was adamant he was capable of flooring the President without the former Prime Minister's help.
"If the mzee (Raila) and he (Ruto) want to team up, there is no problem. Our journey is unstoppable with or without him," the former DP added. "We are not desperate for his participation. The numbers are good and it will be an easy job."
The former DP's sentiments were echoed by Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu who also cautioned Raila against placing too much trust on the president. The senator pointed to Gachagua's fallout with Ruto and subsequent impeachment as a classic case of how political allegiances can suddenly shift.
"Raila cannot sit at the same table with Ruto. If Ruto could impeach Gachagua after he brought him 5 million votes, what about Raila? Whether Raila joins us or not, that is okay, but one thing we have decided is we must take Ruto home," Nyutu remarked.
The political maneuvering comes at a time when Kenyans are eagerly waiting for Raila’s next move following his unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
While Raila has remained coy on his next political steps, he assured his supporters that he would make his decision known in due time.
Despite a collaborative approach with Ruto, the ODM party boss has never been shy of criticising the government, particularly on matters affecting ordinary Kenyans.
In one of his latest remarks on Sunday, Raila called on Ruto's administration to compensate victims of protests which date as far back as 2023.
Gachagua expressed confidence that the Gema community could successfully unseat Ruto if they stood together, emphasizing that they could achieve this feat even without Raila’s support.
