Gachagua Pressured to Team Up with Kalonzo, Natembeya as Rift with Ruto Widens
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is facing mounting pressure to reconsider his political strategy, with growing calls for a new alliance that could alter Kenya’s political dynamics.
Nyandarua Senator John Methu has encouraged Gachagua to join forces with Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, and other leaders with shared interests as a way to bolster his political influence.
Methu’s advice is not without foundation. The integration of Raila Odinga’s key allies into President William Ruto’s Cabinet has created significant political tension, putting several leaders in challenging positions.
Odinga’s alignment with Ruto has left figures like Kalonzo Musyoka, who once held substantial political ambitions, on the sidelines. Meanwhile, leaders like Natembeya are gaining prominence as potential competitors to established figures like Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
Methu’s proposal underscores the changing landscape of political alliances in Kenya. He suggests that by establishing strategic partnerships, Gachagua could strengthen his support base and secure his political future amid growing uncertainties.
Speaking on Wednesday, August 20, the Senator emphasized the importance of a broad-based approach, drawing parallels to President Ruto’s strategy of involving opposition figures in his administration.
However, Methu’s counsel comes with a note of caution. He urged Gachagua to avoid adopting a rigid stance against opposition parties, warning that this could distance potential allies.
“I appeal to you to dismantle the ‘traps’ we previously set for the opposition, as they could end up catching our friends. Take this chance to build new connections, irrespective of their political clout,” Methu advised.
Methu also singled out Narc Kenya Party leader Martha Karua, advising Gachagua to avoid aligning with her, as he dismissed her as lacking “significant support.” This exclusion highlights the ongoing political maneuvering shaping future alliances in Kenya.
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Methu’s remarks echo Gachagua’s statement from February last year when he claimed to have set “traps” at State House to block opposition leader Raila Odinga.
At that time, Gachagua was committed to protecting President Ruto from any attempts by Odinga to join the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“Leave the job of safeguarding the President to me,” Gachagua confidently stated. “If anyone tries to approach State House, I have set traps on every possible route they could take.”
However the political environment has since shifted significantly. President Ruto’s recent Cabinet reshuffle, which saw the inclusion of four senior ODM members, has sparked unrest within the opposition.
This move led Narc-Kenya and DAP-Kenya to withdraw from the Azimio Coalition, citing betrayal and shifting allegiances.
Despite the criticism, President Ruto has defended his decision, arguing that these appointments will “accelerate” Kenya’s development. During a recent visit to the Kisii region, Ruto called on leaders to set aside personal interests and prioritize national unity.
“I urge those leaders who have yet to embrace the importance of unity to join us in this greater mission,” Ruto declared, advocating for collective efforts to advance the nation.
Gachagua Pressured to Team Up with Kalonzo, Natembeya as Rift with Ruto Widens
