Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed the political partnership between President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying the alliance will not ensure the President’s victory in the 2027 General Election.
In an interview with a local TV station on Thursday, June 3, 2026, Gachagua said the opposition would find it easier to unseat Ruto if ODM Party leader Oburu Odinga serves as the president’s chief campaigner for the next election.
“We have no problem, and we shall accept the election outcomes in 2027. I heard Oburu saying that he wouldn’t work with me. We have an easy task if Oburu Odinga is William Ruto’s chief campaigner,” Gachagua said.
Gachagua also played down the impact of growing cooperation between UDA and ODM. He argued that most Kenyans focus more on economic challenges and governance than on shifting political alliances.
The DCP leader added that the opposition will build a strong coalition that will give Kenyans an alternative leadership platform in 2027. He said voters will base their decisions on leaders’ performance rather than on the political support the current administration currently enjoys, which he said has declined.
At the same time, Gachagua urged supporters of the United Alternative Government to stay patient and united as they choose the coalition’s presidential flagbearer for 2027. He warned that naming the candidate too soon could give Ruto time to plan and counter the opposition’s strategy.
Gachagua said coalition leaders are focused on strengthening their movement and expanding their support before they settle on a candidate to challenge the President. He added that the opposition should prioritize unity over internal competition for leadership posts.
“We should remain calm on the issue of the flag bearer. Naming a candidate too early will give William Ruto time to plan against the opposition. The most important thing now is to unite Kenyans and build a strong coalition,” he said.
Gachagua also said the United Alternative Government remains confident of defeating President Ruto, regardless of the alliances the ruling coalition forms. He expressed optimism that a united opposition front will pose a serious challenge in the next general election.
