Gachagua Challenges Ukambani’s Opposition Strength at Tseikuru

A high-stakes political gathering orchestrated by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka in Tseikuru, Kitui County, on Thursday, took an unexpected turn when former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua challenged the electoral contribution of the Ukambani region to the broader opposition movement. 

The event, initially designed to solidify Kalonzo's regional dominance and bolster his prospects for the 2027 General Election, became a focal point for discussions on voter mobilisation and political loyalty. Gachagua, addressing opposition supporters at the event, asserted that the Ukambani region, including its diaspora, must generate an additional four million votes to effectively challenge President William Ruto's administration in the upcoming election. 

This statement, while emphasising the need for collective opposition efforts, implicitly questioned Kalonzo's political influence in the region, sparking varied reactions among leaders and supporters present. The gathering was intended to showcase a unified opposition front, with key figures such as former Cabinet secretaries Justin Muturi, Peter Munya, and Mithika Linturi in attendance. However, Gachagua's remarks diverted the conversation towards an evaluation of Ukambani's electoral significance, prompting some to perceive it as a referendum on the region's ability to deliver votes.

The shift in narrative elicited mixed responses from within Kalonzo's camp. An MP allied to Kalonzo has expressed concern that the forum had been reduced to a "referendum on Ukambani's ability to deliver votes." In contrast, Wiper Deputy Chairman and Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. remained optimistic, assuring that achieving the four million vote target is feasible. Kilonzo Jr. outlined plans to enhance voter registration efforts across Kamba communities nationwide. 

Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua downplayed concerns, asserting that Gachagua's statement served as a rallying call for the community to actively participate in shaping the nation's political future, rather than undermining Musyoka's political standing. Wambua further claimed that Wiper's numbers exceeded four million votes, with Ukambani alone capable of contributing at least 4.5 million to the opposition's cause.

The Tseikuru gathering was also intended to solidify Kalonzo's position as a leading figure within the opposition, particularly as President Ruto prepares for a regional tour. During the event, calls intensified for residents to reject engagements with President Ruto, with Gachagua urging residents to allow Kalonzo to be the sole political voice in Ukambani. Opposition leaders criticized those who had attended a State House consultative forum, dismissing their engagement with the government as political opportunism.

Kalonzo himself condemned those seeking development pledges from the administration, arguing that infrastructural improvements should be a right rather than a privilege negotiated by select leaders. He emphasised his desire to frame opposition politics as a push for equity and justice rather than transactional negotiations.

While the gathering was not an official declaration of an opposition flag bearer, some speakers strongly hinted at their preference for Kalonzo as the best candidate to challenge President Ruto in 2027. Naivasha MP Jane Kihara and Democratic Action Party leader Eugene Wamalwa signalled their support, portraying Kalonzo as the most viable leader to unify opposition forces.

The forum served to energise opposition supporters, with leaders emphasising their commitment to ensuring President Ruto does not secure a second term. Drawing parallels to the broad-based coalition that unseated former President Daniel arap Moi in 2002, opposition figures stressed the importance of unity and resilience. Kalonzo made it clear that the opposition would not waver in its determination to challenge the current administration. He assured that efforts to intimidate leaders, including threats of arrest against Gachagua, would not deter their mission.

Democratic Action Party Deputy Leader Wafula Wamunyinyi reinforced these sentiments, asserting that opposition forces must stand behind the coalition's chosen candidate to effectively counter President Ruto.