Gachagua’s New Politics: A Game-Changer for His Rivals
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s recent actions have taken critics by surprise and forced his political adversaries to reconsider their strategies.
Gachagua’s latest approach to move past his previous contentious stance and adopt a more unifying image could significantly impact his political opponents.
His critics had hoped to leverage his earlier controversial remarks that favored Mount Kenya’s interests to undermine him before the 2027 elections.
The DP’s recent efforts to project a more nationalistic image, following what his supporters describe as a successful Nyanza visit, have put his critics on the defensive.
Despite his prior divisive rhetoric, Gachagua received a warm reception from locals during his recent Luo Nyanza tour alongside President William Ruto.
Initially, Gachagua was seen as a key figure in the Kenya Kwanza coalition who strongly opposed any collaboration between President Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga.
His perceived antagonism towards Raila and his admission of efforts to trap the former prime minister were expected to lead to a hostile reception in Nyanza.
Nyanza, a stronghold of Raila’s political base, has historically faced political marginalization from successive regimes due to its opposition stance.
Gachagua’s recent visit to Luo Nyanza was marked by a surprising political turnaround, revealing new strategies that have unsettled his critics.
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During his four-day tour of the Luo Nyanza counties, Gachagua not only reversed his earlier position but also won favor from the locals, demonstrating a shift in his political stance.
Political analysts suggest that the tour showcased a new side of Gachagua, highlighting his recent rebranding and strategic shift as he prepares for the 2027 elections.
Others view this development as a significant political comeback for Gachagua, positioning him as a key player on the national stage despite previous criticisms.
During the visit, Gachagua praised Raila and supported President Ruto’s decision to form a broad-based government, aiming to connect with the residents and foster unity.
Critics had anticipated that Gachagua would avoid the President’s Nyanza tour in protest of the broad-based Cabinet and his past comments about Raila.
However, Gachagua’s approach during the Nyanza visit portrayed him as a committed government official, despite the Cabinet’s reorganization.
“President Ruto’s decision to restructure the Cabinet aims to unite Kenyans and achieve collective prosperity,” Gachagua stated.
“A unified nation will unlock its full potential for greater socio-economic growth and benefit all its citizens.”
Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, a close ally of Gachagua, criticized those framing the DP negatively, arguing that Gachagua has proven himself as a unifying force.
“The deputy president exceeded expectations, demonstrating his role as a unifier rather than a divisive figure, contrary to some claims,” Gakuya said.
The MP assured that Gachagua’s efforts have always been about equity, not favoritism and that his recent trip to Nyanza revealed his commitment to national unity.
Gachagua had previously stirred controversy by claiming Mount Kenya was the biggest supporter of the Kenya Kwanza government, emphasizing regional contributions to state appointments.
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During his Nyanza tour, however, Gachagua shifted his narrative, asserting that all Kenyans deserve opportunities in government and that development should be evenly distributed.
Reflecting on past political tensions, Gachagua described previous conflicts as bygone issues, now focusing on unity and development.
“The disagreements are behind us. We are now united and focused on progress,” Gachagua said upon returning to Mount Kenya, promoting regional unity and respect for leaders.
Gachagua’s recent rhetoric in Mount Kenya has shifted from earlier divisive statements, urging the region to embrace unity and avoid animosity.
“We must not hate any community, as it would be detrimental. We’ve learned that forming alliances is crucial for success,” he said.
Former Cabinet Minister Franklin Bett noted that Gachagua’s rebranding aligns with the evolving political landscape, aiming to avoid alienation and support national integration.
“The DP’s previous remarks seemed to favor Mount Kenya, but his Nyanza visit has altered this perception, presenting him as a national leader,” Bett commented.
At the height of anti-government protests, Gachagua was accused of supporting the campaign and even of plotting against his government, with accusations of connections to former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
These claims had cast Gachagua in a negative light, leading to discussions of potential impeachment.
“This background explains Gachagua’s rebranding efforts, as he recognizes that Ruto’s 2027 reelection strategy may offer more options beyond Mount Kenya,” political analyst Alexander Nyamboga said.
Gachagua’s New Politics: A Game-Changer for His Rivals
