Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua asserted that the GEMA communities will play a crucial role in shaping Kenya’s next government, emphasizing their strength in unity. He criticized President Ruto’s dependency on Raila Odinga for political survival and highlighted the importance of appealing to the Gen Z electorate in the upcoming elections. Gachagua’s engagement with key opposition leaders reflects a significant shift in Kenya’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a recent declaration, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua emphasized the political significance of the Gikuyu, Embu, Meru, and Akamba (GEMA) communities in shaping the future of Kenya’s government. While addressing congregants at a church service in Machakos, Gachagua expressed unwavering confidence in GEMA’s collective strength to influence the country’s political direction, regardless of opposition leader Raila Odinga’s involvement.
Gachagua boldly stated, “GEMA ndiyo dawa ya Kenya. GEMA itaunda the next government,” reflecting his conviction that unity amongst these communities would guarantee political dominance. He assured his supporters that their collective numbers were adequate to secure a victory in the upcoming 2027 general elections, asserting, “We have looked at the numbers and they are good, with or without him (Raila).”
Furthermore, Gachagua launched a strong critique against President William Ruto, suggesting that his political viability now relies heavily on Odinga’s influence, implying that Ruto’s survival is uncertain without Odinga’s support. Gachagua claimed, “Life support machine ya Ruto ni Raila saa hii. Akizima, amekwisha,” predicting a challenging re-election campaign for Ruto in the 2027 elections.
He forecasted Ruto’s possible performance in the next elections, stating, “Ruto atakuwa number three ama number four 2027,” while also asserting that if GEMA remains united, they could dominate the political landscape for the next century. He further declared, “If we unite as GEMA, we shall be in power for the next 100 years,” signaling a strong commitment to political cohesion within the communities.
Amidst these remarks, speculation regarding Gachagua’s political future has intensified, particularly following his recent overtures to opposition figures, hinting at potential collaboration with Odinga to challenge President Ruto’s administration. He expressed uncertainty regarding Odinga’s political motivations, stating, “I do not understand Raila’s intentions; it is his choice whether he wants to be with Ruto and water down his political legacy or join the side of liberating this country.”
Gachagua also asserted that the Gen Z electorate, pivotal in the previous elections, would not support Ruto in 2027, claiming that they have collectively decided on the need for a new government that serves their interests. He stated, “Kenyans have already decided Ruto must go home and want a new government that serves them.”
His strategy to forge a robust opposition coalition is evident through his discussions with prominent political figures such as Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), and Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa. These efforts signify a significant realignment in the political landscape of Kenya as the 2027 elections approach.
In summary, Rigathi Gachagua has positioned the GEMA communities as a pivotal force in Kenya’s upcoming elections, reiterating the need for unity among these groups to ensure political dominance. His criticisms of President Ruto underscore a narrative of potential vulnerability without the backing of Raila Odinga, while his outreach to opposition leaders indicates a shift in political alliances. Gachagua’s emphasis on Gen Z voters further highlights the changing dynamics within Kenya’s electorate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
