Wamunyoro Retreat Pushes for Uhuru–Gachagua Political Pact

Democracy for Citizen Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua is holding a 45-day political retreat at his Wamunyoro home in Nyeri County, where he has indicated he is willing to abandon his presidential ambitions if it helps unite the opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The retreat, which began on 16 June and will continue until 30 July, has brought together grassroots leaders, clergy and political aspirants for daily discussions on the region’s political future. During the meetings, Gachagua said he would step aside if that would strengthen efforts to unseat President William Ruto in the next election.

"I’m more than ready to forfeit my presidential bid if that is all it takes to have President Ruto out of power," Gachagua told delegates. 

He added that he wanted the community to help decide which opposition candidate should receive its support if he is not selected. Several opposition figures have been mentioned as possible candidates, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Jubilee’s Dr Fred Matiang’i, who is reportedly supported by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, People Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, and DAP-K leaders George Natembeya and Eugene Wamalwa. 

The discussions reflect ongoing efforts within the opposition to agree on a common candidate. The Kikuyu Council of Elders has welcomed improving relations between Gachagua and Kenyatta, describing the development as an important step towards political unity in the Mt Kenya region. 

Council chairman Wachira Kiago said the two leaders are now communicating and are committed to working together on the region’s political direction. Former provincial administrator Joseph Kaguthi, who is convening the retreat, said Gachagua would lead the region’s political campaign while Kenyatta would serve as an adviser.

DCP Council of Eminent Persons chairman Maina Kamanda said the retreat is intended to strengthen unity and prepare a common political strategy. He said the region is prepared to support a presidential candidate from outside Mt Kenya if that improves the opposition’s chances of forming a broad national alliance.

The retreat has also focused on the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election scheduled for 16 July. DCP candidate Sammy Ngotho will face UDA candidate Muchina Nyaga in a contest widely viewed as an early test of the party’s support in the region.

Nyandarua Senator John Methu said the by-election has been a key topic during the meetings, with Gachagua taking an active role in campaign planning and mobilisation.

The discussions have also exposed differences within DCP over the possible admission of senior government officials linked to President Ruto. Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu said several Cabinet secretaries and principal secretaries have expressed interest in joining the party. 

While Gachagua has said they should be allowed to compete through a fair nomination process, some party members oppose their entry. Those opposed argue that the officials supported actions against Gachagua and the Mt Kenya region, including his impeachment in 2024 and the government's response to the Gen Z protests.