Gachagua, Natembeya Unite Ahead of Western Kenya Opposition Tour

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua met Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya in Nairobi on Thursday as opposition leaders prepare for a political tour of Western Kenya starting on Friday.

The breakfast meeting focused on plans to strengthen support for the opposition in Western Kenya and build momentum ahead of the 2027 General Election. Gachagua described the discussions as productive and said Natembeya had shared reports of increasing public support for political change across the region.

According to Gachagua, the two leaders agreed that opposition parties must remain united if they are to present a strong challenge to President William Ruto in 2027. He said the opposition should rally behind a single presidential candidate, stating that this would be the most effective way to contest the election scheduled for 10 August 2027.

Gachagua also highlighted his ongoing 45-day stakeholder consultations at his Wamunyoro residence, saying the initiative is aimed at building consensus on the selection of a presidential flag bearer. He said the process reflects the principles of his Democracy for Citizens Party, which emphasises public consultation before major political decisions are made.

Natembeya said similar discussions are taking place throughout Western Kenya, where many residents are calling for a united opposition movement. His participation reflects the growing influence of regional leaders in shaping national political alliances, particularly in areas where opposition parties have previously struggled to consolidate support.

The question of how to select a joint presidential candidate remains unresolved. Martha Karua, leader of the People’s Liberation Party, has proposed the use of scientific opinion polls to determine the candidate, a position also supported by Jubilee presidential aspirant Fred Matiang’i.

However, this approach differs from that of groups aligned to Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Gachagua, who favour selecting a candidate through consultations and consensus-building.