Opposition teams go solo in campaigns as Gachagua warns no free ticket in 2027

Opposition leaders in Kenya have shifted from joint rallies to individual campaigns to consolidate their political bases ahead of the 2027 election. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has emphasized that candidates must work independently to earn their positions rather than relying on coalition endorsements.
Why it matters
This strategic shift signals potential fragmentation within the opposition, which could impact the electoral challenge against President William Ruto.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua addressing a roadside rally /HANDOUT
The united opposition leaders have quietly shifted strategy in their campaign against President William Ruto, abandoning the joint rallies that once projected unity.
Instead, the team now appears to favour parallel rallies aimed at consolidating their individual political bases ahead of the election.
The new approach marks a departure from the joint appearances that characterised the early days of the opposition alliance, during which leaders regularly shared platforms to rally supporters against the Kenya Kwanza administration.
The strategy also came at a time when DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua warned that every opposition leader must go out to look for votes and not wait for boardroom endorsement.
“Let everyone sell his or her party; there will be nothing like being given a position; everyone must work hard,” Gachagua said in a video that has since gone viral.
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