Rigathi Gachagua asserts that the GEMA communities will dominate the formation of Kenya’s next government, with or without Raila Odinga’s support. He predicts challenges for President Ruto’s re-election bid, citing the need for GEMA unity to ensure long-term political influence. Gachagua is also exploring alliances with opposition leaders, aiming to build a formidable coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced that the Gikuyu, Embu, Meru, and Akamba (GEMA) communities will play a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s future government, regardless of opposition leader Raila Odinga’s involvement. While speaking at a church service in Machakos, he expressed confidence in GEMA’s unifying strength, stating, “GEMA ndiyo dawa ya Kenya. GEMA itaunda the next government.” Gachagua emphasized the community’s strong electoral numbers, affirming they are sufficient to claim victory in the upcoming 2027 elections.
He criticized President William Ruto, asserting that the President’s survival is overly reliant on Odinga’s political influence. Gachagua stated, “Life support machine ya Ruto ni Raila saa hii. Akizima, amekwisha,” predicting significant challenges for Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027. He further claimed that should GEMA communities remain united, they could exercise political dominance in Kenya for the next century: “If we unite as GEMA, we shall be in power for the next 100 years.”
Amid speculation regarding his political future and potential alliances with opposition figures, Gachagua has indicated a willingness to collaborate with Odinga to unseat Ruto. However, he remains skeptical of Odinga’s motivations, articulating, “I do not understand Raila’s intentions… it is his choice whether he wants to be with Ruto…” Gachagua foresees difficulties for Ruto among the young electorate, noting that he believes Gen Z voters will largely reject Ruto in favor of a new government.
In pursuit of establishing a robust opposition coalition, Gachagua has engaged in discussions with notable political leaders including Wiper Party’s Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua from the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), and Eugene Wamalwa of the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K). These strategic movements could signal a significant realignment within Kenya’s political sphere as the 2027 elections approach.
Rigathi Gachagua maintains that the GEMA communities will be integral in forming Kenya’s next government, independent of Raila Odinga’s involvement. He foresees challenges for President Ruto in the upcoming elections, asserting that unity among GEMA can lead to enduring political power. Gachagua’s overtures to the opposition indicate an evolving political landscape as the nation gears up for the 2027 general elections.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
