Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has dismissed allegations that he needs former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's support to win a presidential election.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader was responding to calls by Murang'a Senator Joe Nyutu, who was advising Raila to join forces with Gachagua and Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka if he wants to win the presidential elections.
"You can only become president if you run in 2027. Gachagua is ready to support you; if you support Ruto, be ready to play second fiddle. Support Rigathi and Kalonzo, and you will become president," Senator Nyutu advised
However, Raila firmly stated that he does not require Gachagua's support to secure electoral victories, emphasising his track record of winning elections independently.
“Senator Nyutu says I can become president if I join hands with Rigathi... I have been winning all this time but have never been declared the winner. You know what has been happening," Raila said.
"That is why we have been advocating for the election servers to be open because we know that is where the truth lies. However, the most important thing is that Kenya is bigger than all of us," Raila continued.
The former DP had previously extended an olive branch to the former Prime Minister, inviting him to join forces in a potential political alliance.
The former Prime Minister was speaking in Maanzoni Machakos during the funeral service of Retired Col. James Gitahi on Saturday, March 15.
Raila has emphasised the need for Kenya to remain united and peaceful instead of focusing on the 2027 elections.
The clarification comes at a time when there were rumours that there were meetings behind the scenes between his allies and the former DP.
Earlier on Saturday, Makau Mutua denounced the claims that he has been meeting Gachagua. Some quarters had alleged that Mutua was possibly meeting Gachagua for political exploits.
Via X (formally Twitter), the former dean at the Buffalo School of Law explained that he had never purposed to engage Gachagua on any matter, and neither had he met him at any time.
"Just to set the record straight. I met neither Rigathi Gachagua nor former AG Githu Muigai at Sarvid Gardens yesterday. I’ve never met Mr. Gachagua, and have no such plans," he clarified.
