Gachagua Calls Kenya’s Youth the Nation’s Key Asset

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has stepped up his outreach to young voters and grassroots leaders as he positions himself for a possible presidential bid in 2027.

In a recent meeting with youth leaders from Kirinyaga County at his Wamunyoro residence, Gachagua emphasised the importance of Kenya’s youth, calling them the country’s greatest asset. He urged policymakers to increase investment in youth development, highlighting the role of young people in driving national progress.

The Kirinyaga forum is part of a broader engagement strategy that has seen Gachagua hold talks with county leaders, civil society groups, and diaspora communities. Last week, he hosted Members of the County Assembly from Murang’a, in what analysts see as a response to President William Ruto’s simultaneous meeting with grassroots leaders from the same region at State House, Nairobi. 

The back-to-back events point to growing competition for influence in key counties. Gachagua also recently concluded a month-long tour of the United States, where he met Kenyan diaspora groups across multiple states. 

Described as a listening and mobilisation mission, the tour aimed to present his political agenda while building networks of support abroad. Diaspora engagement continues to play a growing role in Kenyan politics, both through remittances and political participation.

In parallel with his solo efforts, Gachagua has aligned himself with a coalition of opposition leaders operating under the United Opposition banner. The group includes Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, Democratic Action Party-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa, and Narc-Kenya’s Martha Karua. 

They have signalled plans to back a joint presidential candidate in 2027. Although no formal declarations have been made, Gachagua’s recent activities suggest a clear attempt to build momentum ahead of the next general election.